Maharashtra Approves Bill to Enhance e-NAM for Farmers' Fair Prices

• Maharashtra government approved a bill to amend the Agricultural Produce Marketing Act, strengthening the e-NAM scheme for farmers.
• The amendment allows selected markets to be declared 'Markets of National Importance' (MNI) if they meet specific turnover and origin criteria.
• MNIs will provide modern infrastructure, storage, and facilities for quality weighing, cold storage, packing, and sale.
• Farmers will gain access to a nationwide market, ensuring fair and competitive prices through online auctions and reducing reliance on local traders.
• An integrated single trader licensing system and executive committees for dispute resolution will enhance market efficiency and farmer confidence.

Why It Matters: New scheme ensures farmers get fair prices and wider market access.