Sialkot: The Punjab Government has drafted a proposal allocating PKR 21.27 billion for the development of model agricultural markets around the province, according to a news report.
The aim of this programme is to cope with price hikes and profiteering, and to provide produce to consumers at affordable rates. This proposal also includes the establishment of ‘Kisan Platforms’ at vegetable markets, aka sabzi mandis, all over Pakistan. The basic aim of this drive is to eliminate the middleman, so that both the farmers and consumers can benefit.
The ‘Kisan Platforms’ will have provisions such as drinking water, and seating, so that farmers are facilitated as much as possible in bringing their produce directly to consumers. This will enable growers to sell their produce without having to pay often exorbitant market fees and commissions.
Work on all these model markets is set to begin shortly, and initially, they will be set up in Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Sargodha, Jhelum, Chakwal, DG Khan, Kasur, Mianwali, Sadiqabad, Rajanpur, Toba Tek Singh, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala — among others.
