Evaluating FPOs' Impact on Smallholder Farmers' Economic and Socio-Economic Empowerment in Assam

The study, Evaluating FPOs' Impact on Smallholder Farmers' Economic and Socio-Economic Empowerment in Assam, explores the critical role of FPOs in enhancing rural livelihoods in Assam. Agriculture remains the cornerstone of Assam's economy, yet it faces significant challenges, including fragmented markets, financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to technology and markets. The research objectives include assessing the extent to which FPOs improve market access and price realization, analyzing their financial performance and sustainability, and evaluating their impact on income levels and socio-economic empowerment among rural households. Through a combination of stratified and purposive sampling, the study evaluates FPOs across different districts of Assam, employing structured surveys and secondary data analysis. Key findings indicate that while FPOs significantly enhance market access and income levels, they face substantial organizational, financial, and infrastructural challenges. The study underscores the necessity for policy reforms, enhanced government support, and innovative approaches such as technology adoption and partnerships with educational institutions to promote agripreneurship. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to strengthen the effectiveness and sustainability of FPOs in Assam.