Boosting Cooperative Success: Evaluating the Performance of Farmer Producer Organizations in Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Aim: This study examines the performance of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, with a focus on identifying the key factors influencing their effectiveness. Methodology: Using an ex post facto research design in 2024, four FPOs operational for over three years were purposively selected, and a sample size of 120 members was chosen through simple random sampling. Data collection involved a comprehensive interview schedule assessing 14 personal, psychological, and socio-economic variables. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted using SPSS software. Results: In the study examining the performance of FPOs in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, 14 personal, psychological, and socio-economic variables were analyzed for their influence on FPO performance. Eight variables showed a significant positive correlation with FPO performance such as education, farming experience, annual income, innovativeness, information source utilization, group cohesiveness, decision-making behavior, and attitude towards FPOs having the highest correlation. Conversely, two variables exhibited a negative correlation, with occupation showing a significant negative correlated. Four variables showed a positively correlated but not significant such as age, economic motivation, social participation and capacity building services, while farm size was also negatively correlated but not significantly. The model's R² value was 61.9%, indicating that these 14 variables collectively explain a substantial portion of the variation in FPO performance. This highlights the critical role of fostering positive attitudes, effective decision-making and other positively correlated factors to enhance FPOs performance. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of fostering positive attitudes and effective decision-making within FPOs to enhance their performance. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve these aspects within FPOs to ensure their success and sustainability.