The base price is determined based on the cost of production and productivity
To support farmers and boost the agricultural sector, Kerala Government has recently decided to fix base prices for 16 varieties of agricultural crops. The scheme will come into effect from November 1, 2020.
The base price is fixed for 16 varieties of tapioca, banana, pineapple, squash, cucumber, squash, plantain, lentils, tomatoes, onions, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, beans, beetroot and garlic. The base price is determined based on the cost of production and productivity. The plan is to make the base price available to the farmer when the market price falls even lower. This will ensure price stability and good returns for the farmers. It will also help protect farmers from market price fluctuations.
The scheme will be implemented by the Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Local Governments and the Department of Co-operation. Listed crops will be procured from farmers through VFPCK, Horticorp and wholesale markets. It intends to open at least one market in a panchayat. In the first phase, primary agricultural co-operative societies will procure crops directly from farmers in 250 markets.
The Department of Agriculture will implement the scheme based on the online portal AIMS. Farmers’ registration, area and production determination and certification as local produce should be recorded in the AIMS portal. The Department of Agriculture will prepare working procedures applicable to all procurement agencies.
The decision has been taken to sell the procured crops under the brand name ’Jeevani-Kerala Farm Fresh Fruits and Vegetables’.
