International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Shaik Shabana, Manish KL and Srinatha TN

abstract
The study examines the socio-economic challenges faced by Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) members in accessing finance and markets in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh. The agriculture sector in India, where 83 percent of farmers are smallholders, is fragmented, leading to low productivity and poor access to affordable credit. This research highlights those younger farmers, particularly those aged 25-35 years, are more actively involved in FPOs (34%) compared to non-FPOs (24%). FPO members generally have smaller landholdings, with 42 percent owning between 2.5 to 5 acres, whereas non-FPO members more commonly have medium-sized holdings (40% owning 5-10 acres). Additionally, FPO members show higher educational attainment, with only 32 percent being illiterate compared to 42 percent among non-FPO members. Annual income levels also vary, with 36 percent of FPO members earning between ?50,000 to ?1,00,000, compared to 16 percent of non-FPO members. The study identifies inadequate credit, high interest rates, and difficulties in documentation as major financial constraints. In market access, challenges include exploitation by middlemen, improper weighment, and poor transport facilities. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to improve the financial and market access conditions for FPO members, thereby enhancing their socio-economic status.