On 10th January, Friday, the Punjab government has rejected the draft agricultural marketing policy issued by the central government. A reply has also been sent to the central government in this regard.
CM Bhagwant Mann had earlier clarified in this regard that Punjab Government do not accept this bill. The central government had ordered Punjab to send suggestions in this regard by 10th January.
The Punjab government has written in its letter that this draft brings back the controversial provisions of the Agriculture Act which were repealed in 2021.
The Punjab government has clearly mentioned in the letter that the central’s draft is an attempt to re-implement the controversial provisions of the three agricultural laws that were repealed in 2021.
Citing the rights of the state, it has been said that according to Entry 28 of the Seventh Schedule-2 under Article 246 of the Indian Constitution, agriculture is a state subject.
Asking the Center not to bring such a policy, it has been asked to leave this issue to the Punjab government keeping in mind the needs and requirements of the states.
According to the Punjab Government, the agricultural marketing policy draft issued by the central government encourages establishment of private markets and encourages contract system in agriculture. It reduces market fees and commission given to middlemen. It encourages direct purchase from farms by exporters as well as bulk buyers.