Coimbatore Farmer Producer Organisations Win Double Recognition at CII Awards

Coimbatore: Three Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) supported by Isha Outreach have won national-level honours for their achievements in marketing, technology and sustainability, marking the fourth consecutive year of national recognition for the organisations.

At the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) Special Awards for Farmer Producer Organisations 2026, held in New Delhi on October 23, Thencherimalai Farmer Producer Company Limited (TMFPCL), based in Sulur, Coimbatore district, secured the national top position in the marketing category. Coimbatore-based Senniandavar Farmer Producer Company received special recognition in the same category, while Ponnad Farmer Producer Company from Kodagu, Karnataka, won the national award for excellence in technology and sustainability.

Speaking about the recognition, Selvaraj Rayappan, a director of Senniandavar Farmer Producer Company, said the organisation had 750 farmer-members and procured coconuts from around 240 farmers. He said the company offered ₹3 to ₹4 more per coconut or per kilogram than other buyers, helping improve the incomes of small and marginal farmers. With Isha’s support, the organisation also hopes to expand its market reach to other states and overseas markets.

At the awards ceremony, Ponnad Farmer Producer Company was represented by directors A.K. Muthappa and K. Rathna Sharmana. Thencherimalai Farmer Producer Company’s award was received by director Subbegounder Kathiresan and director Sivakumar Palanisamy. Selvaraj Rayappan received the award on behalf of Senniandavar Farmer Producer Company.

Hundreds of FPOs from across India applied for the awards. The three organisations were selected following a rigorous, three-stage evaluation process.

Isha Outreach supports 25 FPOs across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with more than 17,000 farmers as members. Small and marginal farmers account for 60% of the membership, while women farmers constitute 15%. Collectively, these organisations have conducted business worth more than ₹400 crore to date.

As part of its support for farmers, a free, advanced soil-testing laboratory operates in Coimbatore for members of Isha-supported FPOs. The facility helps farmers identify their soil’s nutrient requirements, reduce excessive fertiliser use and improve soil health, while encouraging a gradual transition towards natural farming.

Through support for income generation, market access, technology adoption and sustainable agricultural practices, Isha Outreach continues to guide FPOs in strengthening farmers’ livelihoods and expanding market opportunities.