Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar chaired a meeting with state agriculture ministers to review relief measures taken for the farmers in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic.

Tomar appreciated the efforts of states for their proactive role in undertaking agriculture activities during the lockdown.

During the meeting, states have been asked to sensitize field agencies about exemptions given to farming related activities and allow hassle free movement of farm produce, fertilizers and farm machinery.

It has also been decided that Kharif National Conference will be held on 16 April through Video Conferencing. The minister assured the states that all the necessary help and support would be provided to the states during Covid-19 pandemic.

He urged the states to popularize Aarogya Setu App among the farmers and other citizens.

Issues related to farming operations, harvesting, agriculture marketing, mandi operations, procurement at MSP, logistics issues, movement of agriculture and horticulture produce were discussed with the states in the meeting. The states were requested to sensitize their field agencies for facilitating smooth farming operations including sowing, harvesting and marketing.

It was also requested to ensure expeditious permission for movement of farm labours, goods, machines and materials related to farming.

It was informed that the Ministry has released e-NAM modules to enable the e-trading and bidding from source point by farmers, FPOs and Cooperatives.

States have been asked to issue necessary instructions to give effect to the same which would facilitate the farmers in selling their produce, ensuring availability of produce at consumption centers and decongesting mandis.