New Delhi, Dec 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the efforts of farmers in Kalahandi for pioneering a ‘Vegetable Revolution’. During his monthly radio address, Mann Ki Baat, Modi highlighted how these farmers, once forced to migrate for work, have transformed the Golamunda block in Kalahandi district into a flourishing vegetable hub.
The transformation began with a small group of 10 farmers who formed a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) called ‘Kisan Utpad Sangh’.
By adopting modern farming technologies, the FPO has achieved remarkable success, generating business worth crores. Today, over 200 farmers, including 45 women, are part of this FPO.
The farmers collectively grow tomatoes on 200 acres and bitter gourd on 150 acres. The FPO’s annual turnover has crossed Rs 1.5 crores, with vegetables being supplied not only across Odisha but also to other states.
In addition, the farmers are expanding into potato and onion cultivation, enhancing their prospects further.
“This success of Kalahandi teaches us what can be achieved with determination and collective effort,” said Modi. He encouraged people to support and join Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to drive similar progress in their areas.
"Big changes are possible even through small beginnings, with determination and teamwork," the Prime Minister concluded.