Assam agriculture dept withdraws 1% cess on spices

The state agriculture department has withdrawn one per cent cess levied on spices and condiments to provide relief to farmers.

The cess was implemented under section 53 of the Assam Agricultural Produce Market Act, 1972.

The order for withdrawal of the levy has been issued at the directive of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi to provide relief to farmers.

It came into force with immediate effect, an official statement said.

The spices and condiments include coriander, turmeric, black pepper, cereal, chilli, ginger, cumin seed and others, it added.