• Utthan Team
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Market Linkages Strengthened for Women Farmers Through Shakti Mahila Sangathan

Lata ben and Daya ben—both Krushi Sakhis—initially sold their produce only within the village and had limited understanding of how formal markets worked. To expand their knowledge and opportunities, Shakti Mahila Sangathan facilitated a linkage with the Mahuva Marketing Yard. A group of 15 women (8 Krushi Sakhis + 7 women farmers) visited the yard, where they learned the entire auction and price-discovery process for groundnut, bajra, cotton, pulses, vegetables, coconuts, and onions. Yard members explained policies, subsidies, weighing systems (entry and exit weights), bag documentation, and safety measures. Women also learned about available subsidies on tarpaulins, barrels, and grading machines through APMC, and how organizations like ATMA, GNFC, and Pidilite support farmers.

 

They were also introduced to the organic selling system, where organic produce is auctioned separately over two days with different price standards to encourage farmers. The exposure visit immediately benefitted the women: Lata ben, who once sold only inside her village, gained enough confidence to visit the marketing yard independently and sell her wheat. Daya ben, who earlier received low prices (?300–350 per man) due to lack of grading, now grades her bajra, grows organically, and sells at ?550–600 per man at the yard.

 

With support from Shakti Mahila Sangathan, women also received quality wheat seeds. When the crop was harvested, the Krushi Sakhis accompanied farmers to the yard to sell their produce. Earlier, village buyers dictated the rates, but now—after learning how the market works—women have developed stronger bargaining power and confidently sell their produce at prices they choose. This shift marks a significant step in strengthening women farmers’ market access, income, and decision-making.