With the objective to bring awareness on the cluster concept and different government schemes among farmers, Kalinga Youth Association (Implementing Agency) with the support from Institute for Entrepreneurship Development (IED), Odisha (Nodal Agency) and KIIT-Technology Business Incubator (Technical Agency) organized an “Awareness Workshop on Cluster Concepts and Government Scheme” at Kukudakhandi Corn cluster, Ganjam district, Odisha on 13 th September 2024. The Kukudakhandi Corn Cluster, established in the year 2020 is one of the progressive clusters under the SFURTI scheme of MoMSME, GoI. It aims to produce a range of value-added corn-based products, including corn flakes, corn chips, corn flour, corn syrup, and extruded snacks etc.
The awareness programme was intended to familiarize farmers on cluster concept, the activities that will be conducted as part of SFURTI project, its long-term benefit to them and different government schemes available related to agriculture for farmers and request their collaboration and cooperation for the successful implementation of the project. The programme was facilitated by Mr. B Arun Subudhi – cluster head and attracted a strong participation of about 110 farmers. Mr. Jyoti Ranjan Behera, Representative of DIC, Ganjam (IPO) was the key resource person for the training programme. Ms. Rojaleen Priyadarshini – representative of IEDO, Dr. Barada Prasanna Sahoo and Mr. Manoranjan Maharana – representatives of KIIT-TBI and few members of the SPV virtually participated in the session.
The session on government schemes was led by Mr. Jyoti Ranjan focused on different schemes managed by the Gram Panchayat, specifically aimed at the agricultural sector and benefits associated with them. Mr. Subudhi engaged in an interactive discussion with the participants, explaining the importance of cluster-based farming and methods to enhance corn production. He highlighted the benefits of collective farming, shared resources, and better access to wider markets through cluster development. The workshop was followed by a Q&A session, during which the farmer beneficiaries had the opportunity to raise their concerns which were addressed by the dignitaries present.
The workshop was highly beneficial for the farmers offering them deep insights into available schemes. It not only broadened their perspectives but also ignited their sense of empowerment, serving as a true eye- opener for their future growth.