SAFBIN partners have begun their work on Value chain to achieve the larger objective of doubling farmers’ income. Based on the respective Value chain activities being conducted in each country, a discussion was organised to review the progress and bring synergy in the strategies. A total of 17 members including experts from Caritas Development Institute (Bangladesh) participated in the discussion.
The main objective was to 1) generate a common understanding on Value chain initiatives in Bangladesh and India 2) Provide Inputs on VC plan and study conducted 3) Generate common understanding on approaches to be taken The teams from Bangladesh and India presented the progress and plan for Value chain initiatives in their respective countries. In Bangladesh, cluster level business plans based on the studies have been developed with the support of Caritas Development Institute. In India, one Farmer Producer Organisation has been formed and products have been identified and linkages with procurement and processing units been established.
The strategies followed in two countries were discussed and suggestions were given to further strengthen the interventions. In Bangladesh, the bouquet approach is being followed whereas in India Commodity approach is followed. As part of continuous learning process, it was also suggested that an online meeting be conducted every month so that mutual learning among the four countries helps in strengthening the programme and its impact.
