8 June 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. CSC signs MoU to convert 10,000 FPOs into CSCs

Topic: GS2 – Governance  GS3 –  Agriculture

Context

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CSC SPV and the Ministry of Agriculture aims to convert 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) into Common Service Centers (CSCs). This initiative enhances rural digital empowerment by providing citizen-centric services and training opportunities in agriculture.

Importance of this move:

• Enhanced Access: Conversion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) into Common Service Centers (CSCs) expands access to citizen-centric services for rural communities.

What are Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)?

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are collective entities formed by farmers to enhance their bargaining power in the marketplace. These organisations enable farmers to collectively undertake activities such as production, processing, marketing, and selling of agricultural produce. FPOs aim to improve the socio-economic status of farmers by providing access to resources, technology, and markets, thereby increasing their income and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.

What are Common Service Centers (CSCs)?

Common Service Centers (CSCs) are access points that provide various government and business services to rural and remote areas of India. These centres are operated by local entrepreneurs known as Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). CSCs offer a wide range of services including digital literacy, telemedicine, banking, insurance, utility bill payments, and government schemes enrollment. They play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and promoting e-governance and digital empowerment in rural India.

• Empowerment: Farmers gain access to training and capacity-building opportunities, empowering them with knowledge and skills.
• Efficiency: CSCs streamline service delivery, reducing time and effort required for farmers to access essential services.
• Cost Reduction: Aggregation of agricultural produce through FPOs can lead to economies of scale, reducing production costs for farmers.
• Income Generation: By enhancing bargaining power and market access, FPOs can potentially increase farmers’ incomes.
• Digital Integration: Integration with the Digital Seva Portal enables FPOs to leverage digital platforms for efficient service delivery.
• Government Schemes: Facilitates access to various government schemes such as Direct Benefit Transfer, crop insurance, and subsidy programs.
• Employment Opportunities: Increased service provision through CSCs creates employment opportunities in rural areas.
• Sustainable Development: Promotes sustainable agriculture practices and contributes to the overall development of rural communities.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of converting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) into Common Service Centers (CSCs) in rural India’s socio-economic development. (150 Words /10 marks)

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2023445)