Vol. 7, Issue 8, Part G (2025)

This study assesses the impact of a structured training program on value addition, marketing strategies, and technology adoption among Palmyra growers associated with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Kadaladi block, Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu. Although the region is rich in Palmyra resources (Borassus flabellifer), the full economic potential remains underutilized due to conventional practices, limited market access, and low entrepreneurial capacity. To bridge these gaps, a training program was introduced to enhance farmers’ skills in value-added processing, marketing, and export readiness of Palmyra products such as palm syrup and jaggery. A quasi-experimental research design was employed, involving 30 FPO-affiliated farmers selected through multistage sampling. Pre- and post-training evaluations were conducted using structured interview schedules to assess changes in knowledge, production behavior, and marketing practices. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, applying paired t-tests, Pearson’s correlation, and descriptive statistics. Results revealed a significant increase in knowledge and practice levels, with the mean score rising from 34.2 to 57.3 (t = -18.299, p < 0.0000000001162). Correlation analysis showed that experience and age were positively associated with post-training performance, while gender showed a moderate negative correlation, suggesting the importance of gender-sensitive approaches. Among participants, 97% gained knowledge on value addition, 90% showed interest in starting Palmyra-based enterprises, and 87% felt confident about meeting export standards. The study concludes that structured, FPO-based training programs can significantly enhance farmers' technical and entrepreneurial capabilities. It recommends the wider adoption of localized, visually supported training models to empower rural communities and promote sustainable development in other Palmyra-growing regions.