Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, MP, Haryana Top NITI Aayog’s Agriculture Reforms Rankings

Government think-tank NITI Aayog has ranked Maharashtra as the top State in its Agricultural Marketing and Farmer Friendly Reforms Index based on the State’s performance in implementing various agriculture reforms.

Gujarat ranks second with a score of 71.5, closely followed by Rajasthan (70) and Madhya Pradesh (69.5). Majority of the States could not reach even halfway mark on the reforms scorecard. These include Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu and Jammu and Kashmir.

A score of “0” in the index implies no reforms and “100” implies implementation of all reforms suggested by NITI Aayog.

Aayog's agriculture reforms index is based on implementation of seven provisions proposed under model APMC Act,  joining eNAM initiative, special treatment to fruits and vegetables for marketing and level of taxes in mandis.

These indicators reveal ease of doing agribusiness as well as opportunities for farmers to benefit from modern trade and commerce and have wider option for sale of her/his produce. These indicators also represent competitiveness, efficiency and transparency in agri markets.

The second area of reforms included in the index is relaxation in restrictions related to lease in and lease out agricultural land and change in law to recognise tenant and safeguard land owners liberalisation.

The third area included in the index represent freedom given to farmers for felling and transit of trees grown on private land. This represent opportunity to diversify farm business.

This is the first time NITI Aayog has carried out the exercise. Low scores shouldn’t be seen in a negative light. Next year, we can expect more States to improve their scores just like many State have done in the latest ‘ease of doing business’ rankings compared to last year.

With inputs from PIB.