The Bihar government announced plans to develop large-scale vegetable production clusters near high-consumption areas to better manage the state's vegetable production and supply chain. The initiative, spearheaded by the state Cooperative Department, aims to manage vegetable cultivation closer to consumer hubs.
Bihar Co-operative Minister Prem Kumar stated that by implementing the Bihar State Vegetable Processing and Marketing Scheme, Nitish Kumar-led government aims to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce. He claimed that after the scheme is implemented, consumers would be able to access vegetables at reasonable rates.
The Bihar government plans to facilitate agreements between vegetable producers, wholesalers and retail shopkeepers to stabilise prices and ease supply chains. Vegetable markets and storage facilities will be established in key areas to store the produce.
In the first phase, clusters will be established in 300 blocks. Departmental officers will be appointed to monitor daily market rates and ensure effective coordination within the supply chain. The clusters in 20 districts will be equipped with the necessary facilities, with a budget of Rs 11.7 mln allocated for each cluster, pending cabinet approval. Additionally, the state will promote the production and sale of organic vegetables. Vegetable booths will be set up in major district headquarters, including the capital Patna, to support this initiative.
Source: english.jagran.com