The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, approved a proposal on Tuesday to repeal the old OAPM Act and bring in a new agricultural marketing law. The government wants to create a more liberal system that reduces market restrictions and improves competition among buyers. The new law is designed to give farmers better prices by allowing wider trade options and smoother market access. It also aims to build a modern marketing ecosystem that is more aligned with current market needs and policy changes in agriculture.
The reform is important because Odisha’s current law is decades old and was built for a much different market structure. By replacing it, the state hopes to support direct marketing, better price discovery, and stronger links between farmers and buyers.
This step also fits with broader national efforts to modernize agricultural markets and encourage more competition in farm trade. A more open system can help private investment, improve storage and trading infrastructure, and reduce barriers for farmers selling across different markets.
For farmers, the biggest benefit could be more freedom and better income opportunities. For the state, it could mean a faster, more efficient farm trade system that works better for both producers and consumers.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What did the Odisha Cabinet approve?
It approved a proposal to repeal the old OAPM Act, 1956, and replace it with a new agricultural marketing law.
2. Why is the new law important?
It aims to create a liberal and competitive market system so farmers can get better prices and more selling options.
3. How will farmers benefit?
Farmers may gain wider market access, stronger competition among buyers, and better income opportunities under the new system.