NCOL partners NEDFL to establish organic demo farm, innovation hub in Assam

INDIA – National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and North East Dairy and Foods Limited (NEDFL), a joint venture between the Government of Assam and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), have signed an MoU to set up an Organic Demo Farm and Food Innovation Hub in Assam. 

A report by NCOL indicates that the proposed hub will function as a processing center for organic raw materials, ensuring value addition and better marketability for farmers in the Northeast region. 

It will also serve as a demonstration farm, introducing best practices and innovative techniques in organic farming while ensuring economic viability. 

The project aims to train at least 1,000 farmers over the next two years, focusing on organic farming techniques and the development of market-ready organic products to facilitate large-scale commercialization.

According to officials, the initiative seeks to address key challenges in organic agriculture, including the lack of certified processing centers and the limited dissemination of knowledge on organic farming. 

NEDFL, leveraging its extensive farmer network, is expected to play a vital role in integrating organic farming with cooperative dairy activities, ensuring a sustainable and profitable ecosystem for farmers. 

 “This partnership marks a crucial step in strengthening rural economies and empowering farmers through sustainable agricultural and dairy practices,” a government representative stated.

NCOL, backed by the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, is supported by NDDB as the chief promoter.

Alongside NDDB, key cooperative institutions such as the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation (NCCF), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED), Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF), and National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) also play a significant role in its support.). 

The project is expected to significantly enhance productivity, improve market linkages, and boost the local economy by leveraging Assam’s rich agricultural and dairy potential.

A report by NEDFL highlights that with the establishment of the Organic Demo Farm cum Food Innovation Hub, farmers will benefit from essential training and modern infrastructure to scale up organic farming. 

Additionally, the expansion of Purabi Dairy, a major dairy brand in the region, is set to reinforce Assam’s dairy industry. 

 “These initiatives are poised to bring long-term benefits, not only for farmers but also for consumers who seek high-quality organic and dairy products.”

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