Shri Bhuvneshwari Mahila Ashram (SBMA), with the support of SBI Foundation, organized a Block Level Stakeholder Workshop on 31 July 2026 at Manmathan Sabhagar, Gairsain, to share the proposed Potato-Based Entrepreneurship Programme and to seek suggestions from key stakeholders. The workshop aimed to build a common understanding among government departments, local institutions, farmers, women and youth regarding opportunities for value addition, entrepreneurship and livelihood enhancement through potato processing in the Gairsain region.
Participants at the Block Level Stakeholder Workshop, Manmathan Sabhagar, Gairsain
Mr. Girish Dimri, representing SBMA, welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of strengthening local livelihoods through value addition to agricultural produce, emphasising the collective role of government departments, communities and development organisations in promoting rural entrepreneurship.
Objectives of the Workshop
- To introduce the proposed Potato-Based Entrepreneurship Programme.
- To share the project objectives, planned activities and expected outcomes.
- To identify opportunities and challenges in potato production and marketing in the region.
- To encourage youth and women to participate in potato value-addition enterprises.
- To strengthen coordination among government departments, farmers, producer groups and community institutions.
- To collect suggestions from stakeholders for effective implementation of the programme.
Programme Components
The presentation outlined the major components of the programme, including baseline and market surveys, entrepreneurship development training, establishment of a potato processing unit, procurement of processing machinery, formation and strengthening of cooperatives, product development, branding, packaging, quality assurance and market linkages.
Expected benefits include increased farmer income through value addition, self-employment opportunities for rural youth and women, reduced post-harvest losses, and encouragement of local enterprise development.
Open Discussion
An open discussion session followed the presentation, with active participation from Block-level officials, potato-growing farmers, SHG women and local youth. Participants raised existing challenges such as fluctuating potato prices, limited storage facilities, inadequate processing infrastructure and marketing constraints. They also shared suggestions for strengthening the programme, including skill development, financial support, cooperative formation, access to modern technology and stronger market linkages.
The session concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to extend their cooperation for successful implementation of the programme. The workshop witnessed the participation of more than 50 stakeholders, including Block-level officials, representatives of line departments, Self-Help Group (SHG) women, progressive potato growers, local youth, community leaders and representatives of civil society organisations.
Full Report
Media Coverage
