At the World Bank’s 2025 Annual Meetings, World Bank President Ajay Banga praised India’s producer cooperatives and digital innovations for transforming smallholder agriculture. Banga highlighted these initiatives as global models for increasing farmers’ incomes and building resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Producer Cooperatives: Connecting Farmers to Resources
Banga stressed the critical role of cooperatives in linking India’s small farmers to markets and resources. He cited the success of the Amul Cooperative, which transformed India into the world’s largest milk producer. These cooperatives enable smallholders to shift from subsistence farming to sustainable businesses, driving income growth.
Digital Tools: Empowering Farmers
Banga also highlighted the importance of digital tools in supporting farmers. Mobile phones and AI-powered platforms help farmers with crop management, disease detection, and weather alerts. These tools not only enhance productivity but also improve access to credit, helping farmers expand their operations.
Uttar Pradesh: A Proven Model
During his visit to Uttar Pradesh, Banga observed how India’s cooperative model, combined with digital technologies, is successfully empowering farmers. He described it as a “proof of concept” that can be replicated globally.
Conclusion: Collaboration for Scalability
Banga concluded by urging governments, businesses, and development partners to collaborate for the continued success of this agricultural model, which promises to uplift millions of smallholder farmers worldwide.
