A major step towards empowering rural communities was taken on Friday as the Bajali Agro Farmers Producer Company Ltd inaugurated a new agro facility in Jalikhata. Its located in Assam’s Bajali district.
The project is designed to enhance market access, provide financial aid, and strengthen support systems. Importantly, for local farmers engaged in agriculture and allied activities.
Farmers in Bajali Set for Growth
The new facility comes as part of a broader government initiative to improve rural livelihoods . Also, enable sustainable agricultural development.
Officials at the launch event highlighted that the new centre will help bridge gaps between producers and markets. However, reduce transportation barriers, and offer farmers greater control over their produce and pricing.
As part of the launch, a credit facility of ₹6 lakh was also sanctioned for agricultural activities in the district.
Credit Support and Market Linkages
Speaking at the event, company officials and local leaders noted that the ₹6,00,000 credit support will help farmers buy equipment, seeds, and also, other critical inputs for their crops.
Furthermore, this capital infusion is expected to boost production and allow farmers to diversify into higher-value crops.
Moreover, the facility will connect farmers directly with regional markets, reducing reliance on middlemen and ensuring fair prices for their produce.
H2: Community-Based Empowerment
The initiative is rooted in the principles of community-led development.
The Bajali Agro Farmers Producer Company is owned and operated by local farmers. Consequently, ensuring that profits and decisions benefit the grassroots directly.
Officials added that women and marginal farmers are being encouraged to participate in the operations, furthering inclusive rural growth.
H3: Training and Capacity Building
Apart from physical infrastructure, the new centre will serve as a training and information hub.
Workshops on organic farming, modern irrigation techniques, post-harvest storage, and financial literacy are planned in collaboration with the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).
Farmers will also receive guidance on applying for government welfare schemes like the PM-KISAN Yojana, eNAM, and Kisan Credit Cards (KCC).
Government and NGO Support
The launch was attended by representatives from the State Agriculture Department, NABARD, and local NGOs.
They reiterated the government’s commitment to boost farmer incomes and reduce rural poverty by encouraging collective farming models and improving agri-infrastructure.
This effort is in line with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s broader vision in addition to, of achieving “Atmanirbhar Krishi” (self-reliant agriculture) across Assam.
Link to Assam’s Agricultural Reforms
Assam has seen a series of policy shifts aimed at modernizing agriculture.
The new Bajali agro facility complements initiatives like:
- FPO formation under the Central Sector Scheme,
- Agri start-up incubation, and
- Warehouse development under the Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project (APART).
Officials also encouraged farmers to explore digital platforms like eNAM for price transparency and national-level market integration.
Local Reactions and Future Plans
Local farmer Rabin Das shared his enthusiasm:
“We often struggled with selling our crops at fair rates. This facility will help us grow and save.”
Plans are underway to expand cold storage, add a grading and packaging unit. Further, integrate digital payment systems for transparency and ease.
The company hopes to scale up and serve nearby districts like Barpeta and Nalbari within a year.
Moreover, residents and farmers in Bajali are encouraged to contact the Bajali Agro Farmers Producer Company Ltd for enrolment and assistance.
Stay updated on agricultural schemes and rural development projects via the Assam Agriculture Department Portal.
Lastly, for news and insights on similar rural livelihood initiatives, follow The Sentinel Assam and TripuraInfo.
