Ballari: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of seven agricultural processing units across the seven districts of the Kalyana Karnataka (KK) region, aimed at promoting local farm produce and enhancing market access. She added that three units are already operational, while the remaining four will be functional soon.

The announcement came during the inauguration of a Farmer Training and Common Facility Centre at Konchigeri village in Ballari district on Thursday. Sitharaman highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through modern infrastructure and public-private partnership (PPP) models.

PPP model tailored to crop profiles

The minister explained that the units are being set up in partnership with private players under a PPP framework, designed according to the crop profile of each district. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to farmer welfare. The PM Kisan Dhan Dhanya Yojana, extended in the Union Budget this February, provides irrigation, fertiliser access, and market facilities across all districts,” she said.

Sitharaman emphasised the importance of reducing chemical fertiliser usage to enhance crop quality and market value. Farmers have been urged to prioritise organic production under the ‘Kalyana Sampada’ initiative. She noted that the ITC group has been tasked with collaborating with agricultural scientists in Ballari to educate farmers on organic practices and sustainable crop management.

First-of-its-kind tripartite partnership

The Ballari chilli processing unit stands out as a unique tripartite initiative involving the government, private sector, and farmers themselves. Unlike typical PPP models, farmers contributed significantly, voluntarily investing Rs 12 lakh in the Siddaganga Shri Farmer Producer Organisation.

The unit currently has 1,150 members, including 372 women farmers, highlighting the focus on women’s participation in agriculture and allied processing activities. Sitharaman expressed confidence that the model would serve as a benchmark for other districts, combining government support, private expertise, and active farmer involvement.

Demonstration of modern processing

During the visit, Sitharaman inaugurated the chilli processing unit alongside women farmers by pressing a green button to start the machinery. Local farmers provided detailed demonstrations of the equipment used in chilli powder production, showcasing modern techniques for quality processing and storage.

The initiative is expected to improve income levels for farmers by providing access to better technology, storage facilities, and direct market linkages, reducing dependency on middlemen and enhancing profitability.

Boosting local agriculture

Sitharaman reiterated that such initiatives align with the government’s broader vision of strengthening India’s agri-processing sector, improving farmer income, and ensuring sustainability. The focus on crop-specific units will enable each district to leverage its unique agricultural strengths while empowering farmers, particularly women, to play a larger role in local agro-industries.

Officials noted that similar models will be implemented across the remaining districts of the KK region, creating employment, increasing efficiency, and promoting the sale of high-quality organic produce in national and international markets.