Patna: Food processing companies will now purchase vegetables directly from farmers in Bihar under a new initiative facilitated by the Bihar State Vegetable Processing and Marketing Cooperative Federation Limited (VEGFED).
The federation has developed a mechanism to connect vegetable growers directly with processing units and major food companies, with the aim of improving market access and ensuring better prices for farmers.
At present, vegetables are being supplied regularly through VEGFED to the Hindustan Unilever processing unit in Lalganj, Vaishali district, as well as to Madan Dairy.
Agreements Signed with Major Companies
According to officials, agreements have been finalised with several companies, including Hindustan Unilever, Nature Fresh, Technico, Jain Irrigation, Kivisa Agro and Prakashshree Agro for the procurement of vegetables from farmers in the state.
Officials said these partnerships are expected to create stable market channels for growers while supporting the supply requirements of food processing companies.
Rs 100 Crore Worth of Agreements
Several agreements valued at approximately Rs 100 crore have also been signed between the participating companies and vegetable-producing associations across Bihar.
The agreements are intended to strengthen the agricultural value chain by creating direct links between producers and buyers, reducing dependence on intermediaries.
Focus on Expanding Vegetable Cultivation
Dharmendra Singh, Secretary of the Department of Cooperatives, said the government is giving priority to promoting vegetable cultivation in villages across the state.
As part of the initiative, vegetable-producing associations have been instructed to expand their outreach and strengthen engagement with farmers at the village level.
Better Market Access for Farmers
Officials said the direct procurement model is designed to help farmers secure fair and remunerative prices for their produce while ensuring reliable market access.
By connecting growers directly with food processing companies, the state government aims to improve farmers’ incomes and strengthen Bihar’s vegetable production and marketing ecosystem.
