Mapakkai Agro Producer Company Limited (Mapakkai APCL) is a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) which was Registered in 2020. The FPO is situated in the Chayani Barduar Development Block of Kamrup district, Assam, covering 24 villages and comprises 34 Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs) with a total membership of 400 farmers. The name “Mapakkai” is derived from a Rabha word meaning “unity,” reflecting the collective spirit of its members, who primarily belong to poor and marginal tribal families.

The primary objective of Mapakkai is to provide market access for the agricultural produce of its members, ensuring fair prices and enhancing their income. The FPO is deeply involved in the eri silk value chain, from rearing eri silkworms to producing eri textile products such as Eri Mekhela Sadar, Eri Muflar, Pajar, etc. This engagement in the entire eri value chain not only meets the high demand for sericulture products in Assam but also helps conserve traditional practices and empower women in the community.

Mapakkai operates through 34 FIGs, with 24 groups focused on eri silkworm rearing, 8 on weaving, and 2 on spinning. This structured approach has significantly improved market access and fair pricing for the products of its women members, who play a crucial role in sericulture activities. The FPO has successfully helped these women access better markets and obtain fair prices for their products.

In the financial year 2022-2023, Mapakkai APCL achieved a turnover of Rs. 2,35,680.00. Despite its nascent stage, the FPO is strategically planning for a future goal of an annual turnover of Rs. 10 lakhs within the next 3 years. A notable achievement includes receiving an order from the Chief Minister of Assam for Eri Gamocha, which showcases the high quality and demand for their products.

Mapakkai has leveraged support from various entities, including securing a Common Facility Centre from the World Bank. The FPO actively participates in exhibitions, promoting its products and expanding its market reach. This participation not only enhances market visibility but also provides learning opportunities for its members.

Despite its successes, Mapakkai APCL faces challenges such as ensuring consistent quality and scaling up production to meet increasing demand. Continuous support and training for its members is an absolute necessity for maintaining product quality and sustaining growth.