In Gujarat, the government has launched a series of training programmes to enhance the efficiency of Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) using technology. This initiative is part of the celebration of the ‘International Year of Cooperatives 2025’. The training aims to fully digitise APMCs in the state, which are crucial for farmers and the agricultural economy.
Gujarat is home to 224 APMCs, and under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Cooperation Minister Jagdish Vishwakarma, these training sessions are being held across various zones. This year, the government has organised training sessions in six districts of the North Zone, ten in the Central Zone, five in the South Zone, and twelve in the Saurashtra and Kutch zones. A total of 144 secretaries from marketing committees, along with leaders from the cooperative sector, participated.
The United Nations General Assembly declared 2025 as the ‘International Year of Cooperatives’ on June 19, 2024. Following this, the theme ‘Cooperatives Build a Better World’ is being celebrated nationwide. This celebration aligns with the Indian government’s efforts to strengthen cooperatives and enhance their role in the economy.
The state government is committed to achieving 100% digitalisation of all APMCs. The training sessions cover important topics such as the implementation of the National Agriculture Market (eNAM) and the significance of the Agriculture Marketing (AGMARK) data entry for market price transparency. Additionally, the training emphasises digital transactions in agricultural trade, the development of the e-APMC portal, and organising training programmes for farmers and market participants.
The government’s efforts aim to secure a bright future for millions of farmers, livestock breeders, fishers, cooperatives, and women involved in self-help groups. By embracing technology, the state hopes to improve the agricultural sector and ensure fair prices for farmers’ produce. The training sessions provide a platform for discussing various vital aspects of the agricultural market, including gate entry, e-trade, and e-payment systems.
In summary, these technological advancements within APMCs represent a significant step towards improving the agricultural infrastructure in Gujarat. With the ongoing support from the state government, farmers can expect better services and a more efficient marketplace for their products. The emphasis on digitalisation not only aims to streamline operations but also to enhance the overall agricultural economy in Gujarat, ensuring that farmers are well-equipped to thrive in a modern market environment.
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