The Maharashtra State Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has given the green light for a significant international-standard agricultural market to be set up at Dapchari in Palghar district. This initiative involves transferring 558.43 hectares of land from the Dapchari Dairy Project to the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) for the development of a cutting-edge terminal market and cold chain hub. Inspired by Paris’ renowned Rungis wholesale market, this project aims to revolutionize fresh produce logistics on a global scale.
Situated in close proximity to the upcoming Vadhavan Port, which aspires to be one of the world’s top 10 ports, the market will be conveniently accessible via NH-48 and major rail networks linking Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka. The project will capitalize on Palghar’s specialties like Dahanu Chickoo, Alphonso mangoes, paddy crops, and its thriving coastal seafood industry. It will incorporate digital auction platforms, export packhouses, customs clearances, and container bays to enhance efficiency and connectivity with global exporters.
Expected to reduce post-harvest losses significantly and facilitate direct connections between farmers and international markets, the project is projected to create 8,000 to 15,000 direct jobs, with a particular emphasis on empowering local tribal communities and youth. The broader Vadhavan port ecosystem is anticipated to boost the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s economy from $140 billion to $300 billion by 2030, according to official statements.
In a separate decision, the Cabinet has also sanctioned a doubling of financial aid for released convicts, individuals on probation, and those acquitted after spending a minimum of one year in prison under the Probation of Offenders Act, 1958. The assistance amount has been increased from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000 to support their efforts in establishing small businesses for social reintegration. Additionally, an allocation of Rs 24.95 crore has been approved for the enhancement of the sports complex in Beed, which will see the construction of a state-of-the-art synthetic athletic track, football and hockey grounds, volleyball, kabaddi, and kho-kho arenas, along with modern hostel facilities.
