The Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath, has announced plans to establish a modern and advanced "Agri Mall" in Lucknow during 2023. The government aims to create a state-of-the-art facility spanning 8,000 square meters and consisting of seven floors, dedicated to facilitating the marketing and sale of agricultural products.
The primary objective of this project is to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce, while also focusing on product branding and providing a suitable market environment. The Agri Mall will enable farmers to directly sell their fruits, vegetables, and foodgrains. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of offering consumers access to high-quality agricultural products.
To support the needs of farmers and buyers, the mall will include necessary facilities and ample parking space for vehicles. The Chief Minister also highlighted the state government's efforts to promote agriculture and food processing, including initiatives to encourage natural farming. The Mandi Parishad, a governing body overseeing agricultural markets, is actively working to protect the interests of farmers.
In line with international standards, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to establish testing laboratories at each divisional headquarters to verify the authenticity of organic and natural products. He urged officials to prepare a comprehensive proposal outlining the details of the Agri Mall project and its implementation.
What is “Agri Mall”?
An Agri Mall, also known as an agricultural mall or agro mall, is a specialized marketplace that will allow farmers to directly sell vegetables and fruits. Apart from that, the mall brings together various agricultural-related activities, services, and products under one roof. It is designed to provide a comprehensive platform for farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and consumers to engage in agriculture-related activities, trade, and knowledge sharing.
Some Top Benefits of Agri Malls
Centralized Access: Agri malls provide a centralized location where farmers and consumers can access a wide range of agricultural products and services. It eliminates the need to travel to multiple places, making it convenient for all stakeholders.
Diverse Product Range: Agri malls offer a diverse range of agricultural products such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, farm machinery, livestock, and farm inputs. This allows farmers to conveniently find and purchase the necessary supplies for their agricultural operations.
Market Linkages: Agri malls often act as a connecting link between farmers and markets. They facilitate the direct sale of agricultural produce by farmers, reducing dependence on intermediaries and enabling farmers to get fair prices for their products.
Knowledge Sharing: Agri malls frequently organize workshops, training programs, and seminars to educate farmers about modern agricultural practices, new technologies, and best farming techniques. This helps farmers enhance their knowledge and skills, leading to improved productivity and profitability.
Networking and Collaboration: Agri malls provide a platform for farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and agricultural experts to network, collaborate, and share experiences. This fosters a sense of community, encourages innovation, and promotes the exchange of ideas for sustainable agriculture development.
Value Addition: Agri malls often offer value-added services such as food processing, packaging, storage facilities, and quality testing labs. These services help farmers add value to their produce, extend the shelf life of perishable products, and meet quality standards for better marketability.
Job Creation: Agri malls generate employment opportunities both directly and indirectly. They require staff for managing the facilities, conducting training programs, providing advisory services, and operating value-added units. This contributes to rural livelihoods and economic development.
Consumer Benefits: Agri malls allow consumers to access fresh, locally sourced agricultural produce directly from farmers. This ensures quality, reduces transportation costs, and supports local farmers. Additionally, agri malls often include retail outlets where consumers can purchase organic products and healthy food options.
Sustainable Practices: Agri malls promote sustainable agriculture practices by disseminating information on organic farming, conservation of natural resources, and environmental-friendly techniques. They encourage the adoption of eco-friendly practices for the long-term benefit of farmers, consumers, and the environment.
Overall, agri malls play a significant role in improving agricultural productivity, enhancing market access for farmers, fostering rural development, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
