Project Deccan may prove a boon for Baramati farmers as it aims to increase farmers income by contract farming, cutting middle-men, geo-mapping and ERP. Agriculture plays a significant role in India’s development and has made rapid strides since independence. However, farmers continue to face challenges despite several governments’ efforts due to global, climate and technological factors.
Project Deccan
Phoenix Group, a Dubai based (agriculture and food company) has launched Project Deccan in Baramati town of Maharashtra. It has collaborated with contract farmers of the town to grow baby corn, chili, butternut, and other vegetables. Besides, it would assist them to produce exportable quality vegetables. Moreover, the project aims to provide consistent income to Baramati farmers.
How will it Work?
Under the scheme, the organization would provide quality seeds to the farmers. Also, the experts from the organization will visit fields regularly to advise farmers about nutrition, seeds and other agriculture-related operations. Thereafter, the fresh produce will be sent to a warehouse located in Baramati to be cleaned and packed.
Use of FarmERP
The Phoenix group has partnered with FarmERP, the most preferred ERP platform globally to monitor the farms. It offers a variety of services like yield estimation and smart crop advisory that help in better agricultural yields. Also, it assists the users in Geo-mapping, finance modules, and crop-wise financial reports. In conclusion, the platform helps the organization in planning, communicating and analyzing the agricultural data.
The Need
Despite being a well-irrigated town, Baramati farmers faced several challenges ranging from middlemen exploitation to lack of access to credit. Also, the high cost of cultivation has been taking a toll on farmers’ life for a long time. This project would help increase farmers income and educate them for long term success in farming by using technology.
About Phoenix Group
Phoenix Group has been working for two years in India with more than 25000 farmers. Scope of activities of Phoenix Group includes production, procurement, and distribution of various food products. Further, it carries its business under three divisions- Agri food, Distribution, and Resources.It deals in a variety of agricultural products like rice, edible nuts, grains, and pulses and oil seeds. Overall, its main aim is to provide fresh produce to consumers through its vast integrated supply chain. It delivers its products to markets across the Middle East, Australia, Europe, and India.
In all, the Phoenix group has rightly tapped the agriculture potential of Baramati.