Essential commodities market gets a major leg-up from states, police

In most areas, direct selling by farmers to retailers is on full swing, while mandis are calling for lesser quantities of perishables

Assurance of support and required facilities by state authorities to the essential commodities markets and distribution channels has come as a reprive. While labour shortage remains a challenge, traders are coping by convincing local labourers.

The slump in demand for commodities such as edible oils, vegetables, and grains — following the closure of hotels, restaurants and road-side eateries — has reduced the burden somewhat. However, farmers are eager to sell their produce, during the harvest season.

Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have taken measures to smoothen rabi crop harvesting, while Azadpur mandi has returned to normalcy.

In most areas, direct selling