Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, May 15: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Thursday underlined the importance of safeguarding farmers' interests and market committee members' rights during the development of state-level markets aligned with national standards.
Speaking at a meeting held at Mantralaya to address Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) reforms, Pawar said, “Market committee members are elected public representatives. Their rights must be preserved for effective and robust market functioning. Decisions regarding market reforms should prioritise farmers' welfare and be made in consultation with farmer representatives.”
The meeting discussed a range of topics including:
• Development of state markets in line with the national model
• Tax reforms within APMCs
• Maintenance and renovation of APMC infrastructure
• GST-related issues
• Support for small industries and traders
• Provision of CIDCO land for a steel market in Kalamboli
Pawar highlighted that the Maharashtra APMC Act, 1963, may be amended in line with the Central Government’s 2017 law to facilitate the formation of nationally recognised markets. These reforms, he said, should not come at the expense of farmers' economic security.
Meanwhile, social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat called for modernising the leather industry and empowering backward communities through entrepreneurship.
Shirsat urged the Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Leather Workers Development Corporation and the Mahatma Phule Backward Classes Development Corporation to review and redesign outdated schemes. He stressed that young entrepreneurs require modern tools, digital proficiency, and a strong marketing ecosystem.
Key directives from minister Shirsat included:
• Launch of entrepreneurship development schemes to boost employment
• Modernisation of the leather industry through technology and training
• Promotion of startups and digital platforms
• Plans to provide departmental services via WhatsApp for accessibility
He also reviewed existing schemes such as grant assistance, seed capital, direct loans, and skill development initiatives, urging updates to ensure their relevance and effectiveness for today's entrepreneurs.