Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini urges mandi digitization, cold storage, green energy, and farmer assistance centers to benefit agricultural producers.
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini stated that the state’s mandis should be developed into exemplary models by prioritizing agrarian service, thereby setting a standard for replication nationwide. He underscored the importance of full honesty and transparency in the collection of market fees and the necessity of fostering greater trust among producers. The objective, he stated, is to transform Haryana’s mandis into the most advanced, transparent, and farmer-oriented market system in India.
The Chief Minister presided over a meeting with the recently appointed office-bearers of the Marketing Board today. The meeting was attended by the chairmen and vice-chairmen of market committees, State President Mohan Lal Badoli, General Secretary (Organisation) Phanindra Nath Sharma, State General Secretary Surender Punia, Dr. Archana Gupta, Chief Minister’s OSD Sh B.B. Bharti, and numerous senior officials.
The Chief Minister stated that the core principle underlying the operations of the Marketing Board is to promote the welfare of farmers and enhance the economic stability of the state. He stated that the mandi system is the most efficient mechanism for guaranteeing equitable prices and protecting farmers’ hard-earned income. When cultivators are empowered, he added, Haryana becomes more resilient.
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He additionally observed that market committees are not simply government agencies, but essential hubs of influence within the rural economy. Therefore, their effective administration is of paramount importance. Simultaneously, it is crucial to enhance trust and dependability between farmers and merchants. He stated that the objective is to establish a system in the mandis whereby farmers obtain precise measurements, equitable prices, and prompt payments upon delivering their produce, while merchants receive quality products and benefit from an improved environment for conducting business.
Saini commended the significant advancements achieved by market committees in implementing digital reforms over recent years. He observed the effective deployment of e-procurement and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), which guarantees that payments for farmers’ crops are credited directly to their bank accounts promptly. By removing the intermediary position, farmers now obtain the complete value of their labor.
The Chief Minister underscored that all procedures—from the issuance of gate permits to the collection of market fees—must be entirely digitized to improve transparency and eradicate corruption. He stated that increased utilization of technology is vital for the enhancement of the system. He stated that all 24 crops are being purchased from producers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). To date, approximately Rs 1.64 lakh crore has been credited to the accounts of nearly 12 lakh farmers for crop procurement. Starting from the Kharif season of 2024, farmers have been receiving payments within 48 hours of the issuance of the gate pass via DBT. He also stated that efforts are underway to expedite the enhancement of fundamental amenities, including shelters, potable water supplies, sanitation facilities, and rest houses in mandis throughout the state.
The Chief Minister emphasized that establishing cold storage facilities in proximity to farm entrances for fruit and vegetable producers is a primary focus of the government. He instructed market committee officials to prioritize proposals for the establishment of cold storage facilities under the PPP model within their respective jurisdictions. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing road connectivity and ensuring prompt maintenance of roads leading to mandis, so that farmers can transport their produce without impediment.
He stated that the professional conduct and work ethic of market committee employees accurately represent the authentic image of the mandi system. Therefore, employees must continue to be attentive to the requirements of farmers. Adequate training should be offered on the most recent government policies, the utilization of e-portals, and courteous interaction with farmers.
The Chief Minister proposed the initiation of a new program entitled “Harit Mandi, Khushaal Farmer.” Under this initiative, distinct and enhanced divisions for fruits and vegetables should be established in conjunction with conventional agricultural markets. He also advocated for the creation of farmer assistance centers in every mandi, where grievances are promptly registered and addressed, thereby preventing farmers from having to make multiple visits to offices.
He further instructed market committees to implement solar energy solutions to fulfill their electricity needs, thereby lowering power expenses and supporting environmental sustainability. He also underscored the importance of advancing green energy initiatives and mandated the implementation of rainwater harvesting structures in mandis to avert water wastage.
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The Chief Minister stated that farmers engaged in natural farming should be allocated dedicated space and prioritized in mandis for selling their produce, as this method of cultivation signifies the future and warrants active promotion. He also emphasized the importance of establishing secure and designated locations for women farmers and women traders, as well as fostering increased participation of women in the economic sector.
He stated that upholding hygiene in the mandis is a shared obligation. Routine sanitation campaigns should be organized regularly, and stringent measures must be enforced against individuals who engage in littering. He further emphasized that a pure market is advantageous for both commercial interests and public health.