The
Micro Credit Economy is also functioning through the Mission's Farmers' Clubs.
The Mission works in collaboration with the commercial and rural banking sector
and organises the farmers into Farmers' Clubs (also called "Lokenath Krishak
Sangha").
These clubs work systematically by adopting a two pronged strategy. First,
the Mission acts as an indispensable link between these impoverished farmers
and the agricultural universities and government agricultural departments.
Being illiterate, the farmers are often unaware of the latest agricultural
developments that can work miracles for their yearly yields. Now the Farmers'
Clubs help them by transporting the technical know-how from the laboratories
to the land.
Regular workshops and field demonstrations are conducted, educating them about
the harmful consequences of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The Mission
takes initiative in teaching and encouraging organic farming methods. Second,
the clubs act as a link between the banks and poor farmers by generating Micro
Credit to meet their needs. Because the Mission guarantees the loans made
to farmers through the Farmers' Clubs, the Bankers readily grant loans where
they would not otherwise be inclined to do so.
The Mission holds two records with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural
Development in the field of Farmers Clubs. The Mission started the first Farmers
Club in the State of West Bengal, and with 11 Farmers' Clubs, it has the highest
number of Farmers Clubs in the State.
Farmers Clubs Win Awards
The Mission's Farmers' Clubs "Lokenath Krishak Sangha" of Boyarmari in Sandeshkhali
Block, and "Madhavpur Lokenath Krishak Sangha", Howrah, were awarded Special
awards of Rs. 1000 each by NABARD (Federal Bank for Rural Development) in
recognition of their relentless service in mobilizing deposits, recovering
unrealized loans, organizing SHGs, and other service work. A couple of years
ago Madhavpur Farmers Club was adjudged as one of the best FCs in the country
by NABARD. These FCs teach organic farming and eco-friendly activities in
the rural areas where the Mission is working.
