For generations, small and marginal farmers have struggled to get a fair price for their produce. They often rely on middlemen who dictate prices, delay payments, and reduce the farmer’s rightful income. At Kopa Krishi Utpadak Farmer Producer Company (FPC), we decided this system had to change.
🚜 The Problem: Low Control, Lower Profit
In rural Bengal, especially in Birbhum, the traditional crop marketing system often works against farmers. Middlemen buy produce at low rates and resell at high profits. Farmers, without access to markets or bargaining power, are forced to sell cheap — usually right after harvest when prices are lowest.
🌾 Our Solution: Direct Crop Procurement
Kopa FPC enables farmers to sell directly to government-approved buyers and rice mills — removing middlemen entirely. With support from the West Bengal Agri Marketing Department, we have built a transparent, farmer-friendly procurement system that ensures:
- Fair and fixed prices
- On-time payments
- No hidden deductions or commissions
✅ How It Works
- Farmer Enrolment
Farmers join Kopa FPC as shareholders or members, giving them access to procurement benefits. - Collection Points Setup
We set up local aggregation points where farmers can easily bring their produce. - Price Declaration & Weighing
Rates are declared in advance. Crops are weighed using calibrated equipment in the presence of the farmer. - Direct Sale to Rice Mills
Kopa FPC then sells in bulk to mills or institutional buyers at government rates. - Quick Payment
Farmers receive payment within a short, defined time — often faster than local market practices.
📈 Real Impact
- Over 15,000 farmers now sell rice and other crops through Kopa FPC
- Eliminated middlemen in multiple blocks of Birbhum
- Farmers report earning 20–30% more than before
- Faster payments, better trust, and more willingness to invest in their land
🧑🌾 Farmer Voices
“Earlier, I had no option. I sold when the middleman came. Now I sell to Kopa, and I know the price I will get — and I get paid fast.”
— Sabir Sheikh, Murarai Block
🔗 Why It Matters
Fair procurement is not just about money. It’s about restoring the farmer’s confidence, dignity, and power in the supply chain. With better income and price assurance, farmers can plan ahead, invest more, and grow with security.
📌 What’s Next
Kopa FPC aims to:
- Expand procurement to more crops (e.g., pulses, vegetables)
- Build storage & processing infrastructure
- Digitize the procurement process for real-time transparency
🤝 Be Part of the Movement
We’re always looking to partner with rice mills, government agencies, and civil society groups that care about farmer welfare. If you want to work with us — let’s connect.