Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently inaugurated the Farmers’ Training and Common Facility Centre (FT-CFC) in Methagal village, Koppal district. This new center is a significant step towards empowering farmers by boosting value addition, improving processing capabilities, and providing crucial marketing support for their produce.
The establishment of this vital facility was made possible through funding from the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) and additional financial assistance from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
Before the official inauguration, Ms. Sitharaman toured an engaging exhibition. Here, local farmers and innovative rural entrepreneurs proudly displayed their array of processed farm products, fresh organic produce, and various agro-based innovations. She took time to interact with the participants, commending their dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.
During a subsequent public address, Ms. Sitharaman revealed her broader vision: she has allocated a portion of her MPLADS funds to establish similar centers across all seven districts of Kalyana Karnataka. Her aim is clear—to significantly strengthen the rural economy throughout the region.
“These centers are designed to equip farmers with essential skills in processing, packaging, and effectively marketing their agricultural products. With the unwavering support of NABARD, these facilities will enable farmers to add value to their crops and secure fair prices. By linking them to larger markets like Bengaluru, we can ensure improved income stability and prosperity,” she stated.
Ms. Sitharaman acknowledged that while Koppal is largely an irrigated district, some areas still lack proper irrigation facilities. She emphasized that the new center would be particularly beneficial for farmers in these regions, opening up new avenues for agro-processing and other income-generating activities.
“Historically, during periods of drought, many people have been forced to migrate to cities like Bengaluru and Mangaluru in search of work. However, with strategic planning and adequate facilities for storage and processing, farmers can now thrive right here. This initiative is designed to make that a reality,” she affirmed.
Highlighting the impressive potential of the center, the Minister pointed out its capacity to process up to 840 tonnes of mangoes and 600 tonnes of papaya annually, transforming them into a diverse range of value-added products. She also proudly mentioned that the unit has secured FSSAI certification, guaranteeing adherence to stringent quality and safety standards.
Describing the initiative as a key component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, Ms. Sitharaman strongly encouraged farmers to fully utilize the new facility. “This is your center. Use it wisely, and you will discover ready markets and achieve better prices for your hard-earned produce,” she urged, further appealing to NABARD to extend this successful model across the entire region.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to farmers’ welfare, Ms. Sitharaman reminded the audience that 43 lakh farmers in Karnataka are currently receiving an annual sum of ₹6,000 under the PM-Kisan Yojana. She also highlighted the recent GST rationalization, which reduced taxes on essential agricultural machinery and inputs—such as solar pumps, bio-pesticides, micronutrients, and bio-fertilizers—from 12% to 5%, thereby making them more accessible and affordable for farmers.
She extended her gratitude to the Karnataka State government and the Koppal district administration for their proactive support and cooperation in bringing this significant center to fruition.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including MLC Hemalatha Nayak, Finance Department Secretary Vishal R., NABARD Deputy Director A.K. Sood, Deputy Commissioner Suresh B. Itnal, Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Panchayat Varnit Negi, and Superintendent of Police Ram L. Arasiddi, among others.