Thrissur, September 26, 2026: Kerala-based ESAF Swasraya Multi-State Agro Cooperative Society Ltd. conducted its 15th Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) at Dharsana Convention Centre, Vilangannur, Thrissur. The event was followed by a special programme organised in connection with the United Nations International Year of Women Farmers 2026.
The Annual Report for 2025–26 was formally released by Dr. K. Paul Thomas, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of ESAF Cooperative. The AGM was chaired by Smt. Saleena George, while CEO George Thomas presented the society’s annual report, outlining its activities and achievements during the year.
The public meeting was inaugurated by O. J. Janeesh, Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, with Dr. K. Paul Thomas delivering the keynote address. During the programme, the Minister inaugurated Kisan Seva Kendras in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and other states. He also handed over the keys to two beneficiaries under ESAF Cooperative’s Snehaveedu housing project.
The women farmers’ programme included the recognition of farmers and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) for their contributions to the agricultural and cooperative sectors. K. Rajan, MLA, honoured representatives from Pruthashakthi FPC, Maharashtra; Nenmara FPO; Attapadi Tribal FPO; Thrissur Fish Farmers Producers Company Ltd.; Looms of Ladakh Women Cooperative Society; and FPOs from Katni, Madhya Pradesh.
An important highlight of the programme was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between ESAF Cooperative and several FPOs. The agreements involved organisations including Pruthashakthi FPC, Looms of Ladakh, Katni FPOs, Thrissur Fish Farmers Producers Company Ltd., and the Indo Vegetable Development Association (IVDA), Maharashtra. The collaborations are intended to promote cooperation and strengthen support for farmer-producer organisations.
The programme also featured a special felicitation of Dr. Bhilal Ahammed Lone, Chief Scientist and Head of KVK Budgam, Kashmir, in recognition of his contributions. Shri P. Ramachandran, Joint Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Thrissur, also addressed the gathering.
The event brought together cooperative leaders, farmers, FPO representatives and officials, highlighting the role of cooperative initiatives and farmer-producer organisations in strengthening agricultural development and supporting women farmers across different regions of India.