Bhawanipatna, Kalahandi: In tribal Odisha, Kalahandi Pulse Farmer Producer Company Ltd. (KPFCL) is transforming the lives of small and marginal farmers through collective action. Established in 2021, the FPO now brings together 1,248 shareholders from 18 villages, covering over 5,681 acres.
By promoting collective procurement, improved farming practices, value addition and organised marketing, KPFCL has strengthened the pulse value chain. Its mini dal processing unit and “Kalahandi Dal” brand have opened new avenues for value addition and better market access through wholesalers, ORMAS and e-NAM.
The impact is visible in its rapid business growth—from Rs. 8.40 lakh turnover in 2021-22 to Rs. 49.80 lakh in 2023-24, with Rs. 1.46 crore projected for 2024-25. Farmers have reported an estimated 30–35% rise in income through better prices and lower input costs.
Supported by ICARDA, CBBO, OUAT, KVK Kalahandi and NABARD, KPFCL has also earned the Best Performing FPO (Pulse Sector) Award from NABARD, the Best FPO Award from OUAT, and recognition as a Model FPO.
KPFCL’s journey proves that when farmers unite, small farms can create bigger opportunities, stronger livelihoods and a more resilient future.