From Local Farms to Global Markets
Green Harvest FPO's journey from struggling smallholders to premium organic grape exporters showcases the transformative power of farmer collectives. In just five years, they've redefined what's possible for Indian agriculture.
Watch: The Green Harvest FPO Story (2:45 min)
1 The Challenge
Before forming the FPO, Nashik's small grape farmers faced numerous challenges:
- Low prices due to middlemen taking 30-40% of profits
- High input costs for chemical fertilizers and pesticides
- No access to export markets or premium buyers
- Average annual income of just ₹50,000 per farmer
2 The Solution
In 2018, 250 farmers came together to form Green Harvest FPO with a clear vision:
- Collective bargaining power for better input prices
- Transition to organic farming for premium markets
- Direct market access by eliminating middlemen
- Invest in processing and cold storage infrastructure
Key Strategies for Success
Organic Certification
Achieved 100% organic certification by 2021 through training programs and farmer field schools, reducing chemical costs by 30%.
Infrastructure Development
Built cold storage units (500 ton capacity) and packhouses with ₹2.5 crore investment from NABARD and member contributions.
Market Linkages
Partnered with European importers through participation in BioFach (Germany) and Fruit Logistica (Berlin) trade fairs.
Journey Through Time
250 farmers unite with ₹25 lakh capital, supported by NABARD
50% vineyards begin organic certification, reducing chemical costs by 30%
First 100-ton shipment to Germany, achieving full organic certification
500 tons exported to 6 countries, doubling farmer incomes
Transformational Impact
Economic Impact
- Average farmer income increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 annually
- Collective savings of ₹1.2 crore annually through bulk input purchases
- Export revenue grew from ₹50 lakh (2021) to ₹5 crore (2023)
Social Impact
- Established farmer training center benefiting 500+ local farmers annually
- Funded school education for 200 children of member farmers
- Women's self-help groups formed for value-added products
Voices from the Field
Rajesh Patil
Farmer Member since 2018
"Before joining Green Harvest FPO, I struggled to make ends meet. Now, with organic exports, I earn double and my children are getting better education. The FPO changed our lives."
Priya Deshmukh
CEO, Green Harvest FPO
"Our success proves that Indian farmers can compete globally when they work together. The key was focusing on quality, sustainability, and direct market access from day one."
500+
Tons Exported
6
Countries
Through the Lens
The Road Ahead
Value Addition
Establishing processing unit for grape juice, raisins, and wine to capture more value (₹10 crore investment planned).
Market Expansion
Targeting Middle East and Southeast Asian markets with new product lines (projected 300% growth by 2025).
Sustainability
Transitioning to solar-powered cold storage and adopting regenerative agriculture practices.
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