More than 20,000 natural farmers in Gujarat have joined a single federation aiming to market certified produce under a common brand and boost exports to international markets. The Super FPO (SPNF) Gujarat Guild of Farmers Producer Company Limited, formed by 22 farmer organizations led by Hitesh Vora and Madhav Joshi, spearheads this initiative. Hitesh mentioned that the federation includes over 20,000 natural farmers cultivating around 22,500 hectares of land.
The federation, established over a decade alongside the growth of natural farming in Gujarat, operates under the guidance of Governor Acharya Devvrat and state government support. Hitesh, a natural farming practitioner for a decade, employs a five-layer horticulture model inspired by Subhash Palekar’s methods. This model incorporates components like Beejamrut, Jeevamrut, Ghan Jeevamrut, mulching, and Waapsa.
To enhance market access and minimize intermediary involvement, the federation has integrated its activities with the Central Government’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform. The federation’s center in Gandhinagar supplies a variety of cereals, pulses, spices, and other products to consumers. Additionally, the Gujarat Natural Farming Science University has set up 40 training centers to offer technical guidance to farmers.
Plans are in progress to establish an advanced procurement and collection center with support from the Gujarat Natural Agriculture Development Board and the Horticulture Department. This centralized system will enable modern storage and swift transportation of fruits, vegetables, and grains. With natural farming practices expanding in Gandhinagar district and beyond, the organizers are optimistic that scientific assistance and organized marketing will facilitate farmers’ entry into export markets.
The federation’s primary goal is to develop an integrated supply chain for natural farming produce, enhancing market access for growers through collective branding, certification, and distribution.
