In rural India, most farmers are forced to sell their produce to middlemen at low prices, while value addition happens far away in cities. This leaves farmers with little control over markets and minimal share of profits. At the Centre for Collective Development (CCD), we are changing this model by helping farmers form cooperatives that build rural value chains and create thriving local economies.
Why Cooperatives Matter
- Collective strength: When farmers come together, they gain bargaining power.
- Fair pricing: Cooperatives ensure farmers get a higher share of profits by cutting out exploitative middlemen.
- Value addition at source: Instead of selling raw produce, farmers process, package, and market goods themselves.
- Job creation: Local units generate employment opportunities for rural youth and women.
- Community reinvestment: Profits are reinvested in education, infrastructure, and better farming practices.
CCD’s Model of Rural Value Creation
CCD supports farmers in setting up and running cooperatives – from dal processing mills to groundnut oil units. These facilities are owned and operated by farmers themselves, ensuring control and benefits stay within the community.
- Training & capacity building: Farmers are trained in operations, quality control, and management.
- Market linkages: Cooperatives are connected to buyers directly, ensuring better returns.
- Sustainable farming: Profits enable investment in soil health, water conservation, and eco-friendly practices.
Impact on Rural Communities
- Farmers move from being price takers to value creators.
- Local economies flourish with jobs and new business opportunities.
- Migration to cities reduces as rural livelihoods become more viable.
- Communities grow stronger through shared ownership and decision-making.
From Fields to Futures
CCD’s cooperative model doesn’t just change how farmers sell – it changes how they live. By keeping profits, ownership, and decision-making in the village, CCD is building resilient local economies where farmers thrive, not just survive.
When farmers rise together, communities rise with them.