The Kerala government, in a significant push to modernize its agricultural sector, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to directly connect its farmers with major agri-business players. This move is part of the World Bank-assisted Kerala Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernization (KERA) project and aims to secure better prices and stable markets for the state's premium produce.
Forging Powerful Alliances for Market Access
The core objective of this novel programme is to create 150 productive alliances between Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and established agri-businesses. These partnerships will include supermarket chains, exporters, e-commerce platforms, and both farm and non-farm based companies. The goal is to build sustainable linkages that bridge the gap between Kerala's farms and local, national, and international consumers.
Substantial Financial Support and Technical Guidance
To make these alliances viable and attractive, the KERA project is offering substantial incentives. Eligible companies can receive grants covering up to 60% of the total alliance cost, with a maximum cap of Rs 2 crore. This financial aid is earmarked for production investment and business development activities. Furthermore, selected alliances will benefit from three years of expert technical assistance to ensure their long-term success and resilience.
Phased Rollout and Eligibility Criteria
The initiative will be implemented in three phases across key regions of the state. The first phase will concentrate on establishing 50 alliances in the northern districts of Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram. To qualify for collaboration, companies must demonstrate a minimum annual turnover of Rs 10 crore and a proven track record of commitment to working with Kerala's farming communities.
Interested and eligible companies are invited to submit their applications through the official portal at pa.kera.kerala.gov.in/auth/login. The deadline for submission is December 31. For any further queries, potential applicants can contact the KERA project director at +91 9037824038.
This strategic intervention by the Kerala government, supported by the World Bank, marks a pivotal step towards climate-resilient and commercially viable agriculture. By directly linking farmers with corporate supply chains, it promises to enhance income security for farmers while ensuring the flow of Kerala's high-quality agricultural products to broader markets.
