West Bengal to Establish Marketing Board to Bolster Rural Livelihoods

The West Bengal Panchayat and Rural Development Department plans to establish a dedicated marketing board to support self-help groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). The initiative aims to enhance rural development, women empowerment, and market access through partnerships and capacity building. A recent MoU with Flipkart aims to empower women SHGs and artisans.

The West Bengal Panchayat and Rural Development Department announced plans to create a dedicated marketing board aimed at strengthening self-help groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).

P Ulaganathan, Secretary of the department, highlighted the importance of this initiative during the ‘Krishi Sanlaap 2024’ event organized by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI).

The board will focus on market-aligned product development and collaborative partnerships to promote sustainable livelihoods and economic growth, particularly targeting women's empowerment. Recently, a MoU was signed with Flipkart to support women SHGs and artisans by facilitating access to national markets.