BUILDING STRONGER FPO GOVERNANCE: AN ASSESSMENT OF CAPACITYBUILDING NEEDS OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF FARMER PRODUCERORGANIZATIONS IN TELANGANA

Abstract

implementation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The research purposefully selected 18 FPOs from 18 districts, with 90 Boards of Directors (BoD) as respondents. Using Borich’s need assessment model, a standardized interview schedule was utilized to evaluate perceived training needs across 37 core areas within seven major domains. Training needs were analyzed and ranked based on Mean Weighted Discrepancy Scores. The findings indicated several highly prioritized training areas for BoDs, including participation in digital markets such as e-NAM, leadership development, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Additionally, crucial needs were identified in mobilizing partnerships with financial institutions for funding, deriving benefits from various government schemes, and actively seeking market price information for agricultural produce. These results underscore the specific areas where targeted interventions are necessary to enhance the professional management and sustainability of FPOs.