Hyderabad: The Telangana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Commission on Thursday said it would recommend farm marketing reforms after inspections found irregularities in agricultural markets affecting farmers’ returns.
The Commission conducted surprise inspections and field visits across the State. It began with major markets such as Enamamula in Warangal. During these visits, officials examined vegetable, fruit and flower markets.
They found that farmers faced unfair practices in several markets. In particular, the Commission noted that the growing role of middlemen affected price realisation.
Officials said the widespread intermediary system prevented farmers from receiving fair prices. Therefore, the Commission stressed the need for corrective steps. It said authorities must protect farmers from middlemen influence and ensure remunerative pricing.
Farm marketing reforms review meeting and findings
In this context, the Commission held a large-scale review meeting on Thursday. The meeting brought together farmers cultivating vegetables, fruits and flowers. It also included farmer organisations, market committee chairpersons and secretaries, and commission agents.
Additionally, natural farming practitioners, ITDA officials and media representatives attended. Farmers from across the State also participated in the discussions.
The Commission said it received valuable suggestions and feedback from participants. These inputs, officials said, will guide the proposed farm marketing reforms.
Farm marketing reforms report to government
The Commission Chairman and members said they would soon submit a comprehensive report to the State government. This report will recommend structural changes in the marketing system.
They said the aim is to build a transparent and farmer-friendly framework. Moreover, the proposed farm marketing reforms will focus on ensuring better price discovery and fair trade practices.
The Commission added that it would recommend steps to create a profitable and transparent agricultural marketing system for farmers.
Commission Chairman M. Kodanda Reddy attended the programme along with members Ramulu Naik, Bhoomi Sunil, Bhavani Reddy, Ram Reddy Gopal Reddy and K.V.N. Reddy.
Director of Marketing Lakshmibai, Deputy Director of Agriculture Pushparani and Deputy Director of Horticulture Rajkumar also participated.
CPI(M) leader Saramapalli Mallareddy and Telangana Rythu Sangham (CPI) representative Pashya Padma were present. Market committee representatives, farmer groups, commission agents, natural farming practitioners, ITDA officials and media representatives also attended the meeting.