Transforming agriculture and empowering rural livelihoods in India

• Jul 26, 2025
• 1 min

Farmer producer companies (FPCs), sustainable livelihoods, smallholder farmers, fisheries, India, Bihar, women’s empowerment, agriculture

The JEEViKA Special Purpose Vehicle for Agricultural Transformation (JSPVAT) project was launched in December 2019 as a five-year initiative to transform Bihar’s agriculture, livestock, aquaculture, and fisheries sectors. MSC addressed key challenges and improved livelihoods through technical support, market linkages, and capacity building for smallholder farmers and producers. We strengthened farmer producer companies (FPCs) across Bihar, with a strong focus on women’s economic empowerment.

We supported FPCs to drive local economic growth for smallholder members. We also provided vital assistance for staple crops, such as paddy, wheat, and maize, essential to Bihar’s agricultural economy. Engaging smallholders in various economic activities throughout the year enhanced productivity and income stability. Additionally, we introduced innovative strategies to improve access to finance, which ensured the long-term growth and sustainability of FPCs.

Nearly one million women and smallholder farmers in Bihar benefited from the JSPVAT program. Strengthening FPCs led to a 560% increase in revenues for farm- and livestock-based enterprises. Around 200,000 smallholders in aquaculture and fisheries witnessed improved productivity. The project also helped unlock more than USD 10.5 million in funding, which enabled FPCs to generate cumulative revenues that exceeded USD 19 million.

The Gates Foundation commissioned this project.