IKP women’s group launches first fertilizer retail outlet in Jangaon district
Hyderabad: A Fertilizer retail outlet managed by an IKP Rythu Seva Kendra was inaugurated at Marigadi village in Jangaon mandal, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at supporting farmers and strengthening women’s economic empowerment. District Collector Sandeep Kumar Jha inaugurated the centre and inspected its facilities and operational arrangements.
Addressing the gathering, the Collector said the initiative of entrusting a Fertilizer retail outlet to an IKP Self-Help Group was a unique model. He noted that similar opportunities had not been extended elsewhere.
He said the project would improve farmers’ access to quality agricultural inputs while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women’s groups.
Fertilizer retail outlet to ensure quality farm inputs
The Collector stressed the need for efficient management of IKP Rythu Seva Kendras. He directed the management to prominently display all licences related to the sale of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides.
Moreover, he instructed officials to provide complete and transparent information about agricultural inputs to farmers. Sandeep Kumar Jha emphasised that the centre should sell only certified seeds, standard fertilizers and approved pesticides.
He cautioned against the sale of counterfeit or substandard products. Furthermore, he directed the management to safeguard farmers’ interests and maintain public trust.
Fertilizer retail outlet expected to support SHGs
The Collector later inspected the Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) machine installed at the centre. He reviewed procedures related to billing, sales registration and stock management. In addition, he instructed operators to issue bills for every transaction to ensure transparency.
According to the Collector, efficient management of the centre could generate a monthly income of ₹20,000 to ₹30,000. As a result, the initiative could improve the financial sustainability of the Self-Help Group operating the outlet. He said Rythu Seva Kendras play a vital role in strengthening agriculture by providing farmers with timely access to quality inputs and services.
The Collector expressed confidence that the centre would evolve into a trusted service hub for the farming community and contribute to improved agricultural productivity in the region.