In a transformative step for agricultural trade, the Maharashtra government has approved the creation of a 1,200-acre international-standard agricultural market near either Panvel or Vadhavan port, positioning it to become the world’s largest agri-market hub. The Maharashtra Agricultural Produce Marketing (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill enabling the project was passed by a majority in the Legislative Assembly on Friday.
Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal, responding to the debate, said that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar envisioned a market far bigger than Navi Mumbai’s 175-acre terminal market. Once operational, the hub will allow farmers across Maharashtra to sell fruits, vegetables, grains and other produce at national and international levels.
The upcoming market will feature modern facilities such as cleaning, grading, storage, primary processing, packaging and extensive parking, along with strong rail, road and port connectivity. APMCs handling over 80,000 tonnes of annual trade or operating in more than two states will directly benefit from this integrated platform.
Rawal said the state is moving toward the “One Nation, One Market” concept, enabling farmers to trade across districts and states through the e-NAM digital platform using a single integrated licence. He also announced doubling the APMC supervision fee from 5 paise to 10 paise to strengthen market administration and create a secretary-level cadre.
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