Introduction:
𝐁𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢 𝐊𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 – Jan 21-22, 2025, Ranchi
Over two days, this transformative conference brought together FPOs, SMEs, ecopreneurs, CSOs, and experts to chart actionable pathways for sustainable food systems,aimed to empower small farmers, eco-entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ecological value chains. The initiative focused on clean, green, and fair food production, ensuring economic and social justice for farmers while addressing consumer concerns.
The seminar began with an overview of BhoomiKa’s objectives:
Supporting 10,000 eco-farmers and 65 eco-entrepreneurs while reaching 8 million consumers.
Establishing 50 ecological value chains to ensure toxin-free, ethical, and affordable food production.
Bridging the gap between farmers and consumers by ensuring fair pricing and promoting sustainable practices.
A few quesion were discussed at the conference,such as
- Where to source ecological products?
- High prices of such products?
- Is it organic?
- Irregular availability in market?
After that, a discussion took place, and some honorable people delivered their speeches.
Chami Murmu (Tree Plantation Advocate):
Padma Shri Chami Murmu, a driving force of change in tribal and rural Jharkhand, has transformed lives and landscapes. A Padma Shri awardee, she has mobilized 30,000 women across 2,800 SHGs to restore forests impacted by illegal logging.Chami’s work focused on reforestation and integrating agroforestry into sustainable farming. Her dedication inspired participants to explore ecological farming and its potential to combat environmental challenges.
By planting Neem, Sal, and Sheesham, she has rebuilt ecosystems and created sustainable livelihoods.
Shirish Joshi (Practical Business Insights):
Joshi shared essential strategies for eco-entrepreneurs, emphasizing. He focusing on market demand. Leveraging local knowledge and resources. Delaying branding efforts in favour of building reliable market linkages. He gave so many examples.
Panel Discussion on Market Access:
Participants discussed the challenges small farmers face in accessing markets, including like Seasonal production and limited quantities. Lack of awareness about ecological products. Unfair pricing by intermediaries.
Dr. Anant Kumar discussed the challenges associated with organic farming, including, High production costs. Market linkage issues and the lack of demand. He stressed the importance of understanding demand trends and fostering consumer awareness to bridge the gap between supply and demand.
Subrata Rana (Marketing and Economic Models):
He highlighted the importance of marketing strategies and economic frameworks for small farmers, focusing on:
Building partnerships with NGOs and cooperatives.
Developing local markets for fair pricing.
Incorporating technology to improve visibility and access for farmers.
Dibyendu sarkar:
He discussed on Technology Digital platform: Fair Price, Subsidy, Promoting Sustainable, Corporate Partnership, Brand Value, Local Value, Value Addition, Own Market, Network Business.
Amit Das – Technology and Transparency:
He introduced innovative ideas to enhance transparency in the ecological value chain. Use of QR codes to provide product traceability, showcasing information about the farmer, land, and production methods. Involving school children (class 3-4) in ecological initiatives to foster environmental awareness at an early age.
Group work:
The seminar offered practical strategies for small businesses to enhance branding, improve customer engagement, and establish a strong market presence through innovation and sustainability.
1. Social Media & Marketing Strategies:
Importance of broadcasting and repeated posting across platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Leveraging tools like live sessions, promotions, and unique content to connect with the audience.
2. Consumer Engagement:
Conducting field visits to interact directly with consumers. Hosting consumer fairs to understand market demands and promote products.
3. Differentiation & Strategy: Identifying and maintaining a unique selling proposition (USP).
Developing market strategies tailored to local missions and consumer preferences.
4. Product Awareness:
Promoting health-focused and organic products. Ensuring quality to meet customer demands and fostering trust.
5. Preparation for Festivals:
Stock management and readiness for increased demand during festivals.
6. Branding and Promotion:
Enhancing Bhoomika Branding through various means like videos, behind-the-scenes content, and consumer-centric campaigns.
7. Additional Insights:
Tourism promotion as an opportunity for local businesses. Focus on addressing health issues and the organic movement.
Service Providers (SMEs): Businesses need to build transparency and confidence. Their focus should be on production quality and ensuring proper quality control to meet consumer demands.
Food System and Nutrition :
The food system involves service providers and consumers. Understanding market dynamics, pricing, and adapting strategies is crucial for self-improvement.
To ensure sustainability, it needs:
Sustainable agriculture practices.
A fair market system.
Consumer safety and awareness.
Support through food subsidies.
Challenges in Agriculture:
Increased production has led to a decline in quality (e.g., soil health and nutrition value).
Organic and sustainable farming practices (e.g., agroecology) can improve nutrition and promote healthier crops. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing junk food consumption, and combating misinformation, are essential. Policies should focus on educating farmers and students about nutrition and sustainable practices.
Health Department Recommendations:Encourage soil testing and educate farmers on better practices. Include nutrition in school curriculums to promote awareness early. Use campaigns and local influencers to spread knowledge.
Sustainability and Policy Needs:
Address policy gaps in farmer producer organizations (FPOs). Enhance government programs like ICDS to improve local economies and food systems. Promote innovation and better governance.
Market and Governance:
The food system requires strategic thinking to improve governance of food distribution systems, increase availability of essential goods like pulses and oils, and ensure equitable access.
- Linked to marketing strategies.
- Connected to empowering and anchoring the processes.
- Associated with the idea of “betterment.”
1. Goal for Subsidy Percentage: Focus on achieving sustainability. Mention of 400 Cr Road project in Jharkhand Sarhul.
2. Finance: Importance of financial management in agricultural and rural projects.
3. FPO (Farmer Producer Organization Role): To empower farmers and promote organized production.
NABARD initiatives: 1 Station = 1 Product (focus on specialization).
1 Product = 1 State (encourage state-wide specialization).
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