TIES Farmer Producer Company Unveils ‘Mannthra’ – A New Brand for Safe and Healthy Food, Marking a Major Step Towards Empowering Farmers and Promoting Quality Agricultural Products

Kottayam: TIES Farmer Producer Company Limited (TIESFPC) launched its consumer food brand "Mannthra" in a colourful function at Kottayam, marking significant milestone in its mission to build a sustainable, farmer-centric food system. The brand was unveiled by Shri T. Siddique, Hon'ble Minister for Agriculture, Government of Kerala, enriched by leading scientists, agricultural experts, public representatives, farmer leaders,directors,share holders and members of TIESFPC.

In inaugural address, the Minister congratulated TIESFPC for uniting farmers under a common platform and emphasised that Kerala's agricultural future depends on producing safe, quality food while ensuring better incomes for farmers. He said farmer producer companies like TIESFPC have a vital role in strengthening farmer collectives and creating trusted brands that directly connect producers with consumers.

Sri Mons Joseph, Hon'ble Minister for Irrigation, Government of Kerala, inaugurated the first sale by handing over the inaugural products to Dr. G. Jayalekshmi and Shri George Kulangara. He praised TIESFPC for achieving its objectives within a shortspan of time and described the initiative as a model for other Farmer Producer Companies.

The function was presided over by Roy Paul IAS, Chairman of TIES Farmer Producer Company. Dr.Punnen Kurian Venkadathu, Managing Director, welcomed the gathering and presented the company's vision of creating sustainable livelihoods through value addition, branding and market linkages. He said that TIESFPC aims to transform local farm produce into premium consumer products supported by scientific quality assurance and sustainable farming practices.

The programme was attended by Reji Varghese, AGM, NABARD; Dr. G. Jayalekshmi, Director, KVK Kumarakom; Dr. Thomas Mor Thimothiose, Bishop and Secretary, Holy Synod, Jacobite Syrian Christian Church; Mr. George Kulangara, Chairman, National Federation of FPOs; Binu Thomas, Principal Agricultural Officer, Kottayam; Nisha Mary Cyriac, Director, AGMA; Dr. N. Jayaraj, Former Chief Whip, Government of Kerala; Siju K. Issac, President, Pampady Grama Panchayat; M. P. Santhosh Kumar, Chairman, Kottayam Municipality, Dr. Nelson P. Abraham, Working Chairman, TIESFPC, Ajit A braham , CEO along with agricultural scientists, professionals, representatives of farmers' organisations and invited guests.

'Mannthra' – The Identity of Safe and Good Food

The highlight of the programme was the unveiling of "Mannthra", the unified consumer brand of TIES Farmer Producer Company. derived from "Mannu" (soil), the brand represents safe, healthy and trustworthy food produced through sustainable farming and rigorous quality standards. All fresh and value-added products of TIESFPC will henceforth be marketed under the single brand, "Mannthra."

The Story Behind the Name 'Mannthra'

The name "Mannthra" was selected through a global brand naming competition organised among Keralites worldwide. Nearly 900 participants submitted over 4,000 entries, demonstrating widespread enthusiasm for Kerala's safe food movement.

The winning name was suggested by Ms. Swathy S., a B.Sc. Agriculture graduate from Aluva and KERA Field Officer at the Spices Board Field Office, Idukki. The iPhone 15 was handed over to Swathy by Hon'ble Agriculture Minister Shri T. Siddique during the launch ceremony.

"Mannthra" combines the Malayalam words "Mannu" (soil) and "Manthram" (magic), conveying the message: "Safe food is the magic of the soil." The name symbolises healthy soil, sustainable farming and the commitment of farmers to produce nutritious, trustworthy food. It reflects TIESFPC's vision of offering consumers quality products rooted in nature while empowering farming communities.

Under the Mannthra brand, TIESFPC will market a wide range of fresh agricultural produce and value-added products sourced directly from its member farmers. Every product will reflect the company's commitment to food safety, quality assurance, traceability, ethical sourcing and fair returns to producers.

The launch of Mannthra reinforces TIESFPC's mission to promote climate-resilient agriculture, encourage value addition, reduce dependence on middlemen and establish a strong market identity for Kerala's farmers. By combining scientific expertise, farmer participation and consumer trust, TIESFPC aims to make Mannthra a trusted brand synonymous with safe, healthy and authentic food.

The programme concluded with the release of the official brand identity, presentation of the first product portfolio, interactions with farmers and stakeholders, all expressing confidence that Mannthra will emerge as a sincere name representing quality, authenticity and the goodness of nature.