The state government has announced a plan to develop a large agricultural marketplace on around 1,200 acres of land near Vadhvan Port in Palghar district. The main objective of this initiative is to boost agricultural exports and improve market access for farmers.
The INR 76,200 crore Vadhvan Port project is currently under construction. Its foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2024. According to official estimates, the port is expected to become operational by 2029–30, with full completion targeted by 2034.
As part of a broader regional development plan, the government is also considering the development of an airport and other infrastructure in the area.
The announcement regarding the agricultural market was made by State Marketing Minister Jaykumar Rawal during a state-level conference of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) held on Monday.
The event was organised by the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board and the Maharashtra Agribusiness Network at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre.
According to the minister, the government aims to build a world-class agricultural market near Vadhvan Port. With strong connectivity through road, rail, port, and air networks, Maharashtra is expected to emerge as a major global trading hub for agricultural products.
The project is designed to create a complete agricultural value chain, allowing farmers to participate not only in production but also in processing, packaging, branding, marketing, and distribution.
The proposed mega market will include integrated facilities such as logistics, storage, processing, and export services within a single ecosystem, strengthening Maharashtra’s position as a leading global center for agricultural trade.
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