Mumbai, July 14 (IANS) The Maharashtra State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday, approved the establishment of a massive international-grade agriculture market at Dapchari in Palghar district.

The Cabinet has approved the free transfer of 558.43 hectares of land belonging to the Dapchari Dairy Project in Palghar district to the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB). This land will be used to develop an international-grade ultra-modern terminal market and cold chain hub. Modelled after the world-famous Rungis wholesale market in Paris, the project will serve as a global benchmark for fresh produce logistics.

Located close to the upcoming mega Vadhavan Port (aiming to be among the world’s top 10 ports), the facility is just 40 km from the port and highly accessible via NH-48 and major rail networks connecting Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka.

The project leverages Palghar’s famous Dahanu Chickoo (Sapota), Alphonso mangoes, paddy crops, and its thriving coastal seafood industry. It features digital auction platforms integrated with e-NAM, export packhouses, customs clearances, and container bays, said the government release.

It is projected to slash post-harvest losses by 15 to 30 per cent, connect farmers directly to global exporters, and generate 8,000 to 15,000 direct jobs, with a specific focus on local tribal communities and youth. The larger Vadhavan port ecosystem is expected to push the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s (MMR) economy from $140 billion to $300 billion by 2030, said the government release.

In another decision, the Cabinet approved doubling the financial assistance provided to released convicts, individuals on probation, and those acquitted after spending at least one year in prison from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000 under the Probation of Offenders Act, 1958. The fund helps them establish small businesses for social reintegration.

Further, the Cabinet also cleared an outlay of Rs 24.95 crore for upgrading the sports complex in Beed. The Public Works Department (PWD) will construct a state-of-the-art synthetic athletic track, football and hockey grounds, volleyball, kabaddi, and kho-kho arenas, alongside rainwater harvesting and modern hostel facilities.

–IANS

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