GI recognition of Virudhunagar Samba Chilli alone has not translated into higher incomes due to limited value addition and weak market linkages. Many farmers and SHG members lack access to processing facilities, branding, and modern marketing skills. This project is essential to promote entrepreneurship, enhance value addition, and improve incomes through better market access.
This project aims to
01
Train and build capacity of 190 producers
02
Increase farmer incomes to around ₹15,000 per month
03
Strengthen GI protection through Authorized User (AU) registration
04
Develop strong buyer linkages and market access
05
Promote women-led enterprises
Key Interventions
- LEDP training for 90 SHG members (production, branding, digital marketing)
- Setting up of Common Processing Facility
- FPO strengthening via processing, Rural Haat/Mart & e-commerce
- NIFTEM training on grading, packaging & FSSAI compliance
Expected outcome
- 10–25% higher price realization through direct market linkage
- 40–60% growth in FPO turnover
- Improved export readiness of the product
- Women transitioning into entrepreneurs
- Stronger SHG–FPO ecosystem with reduced migration
Testimonials
With the help of FPOs anI am a chilli producer and SHG member from Virudhunagar, and for a long time, my work remained limited to basic production with little control over how or where my produce was sold.
Through Post-GI and LEDP interventions, I learned scientific grading, hygienic processing, proper packaging, and even digital marketing. For the first time, I understood the value of quality and branding. Support for Authorized User (AU) registration gave me confidence that our product’s identity was protected and recognized.
d buyer–seller meets, I am now able to reach markets directly. I no longer depend entirely on middlemen, and I am getting better prices for my produce. My income has improved, but more importantly, I have gained confidence and independence as a micro-entrepreneur.
Mrs. Pechiammal
Farmer