Pune: Three years after the first farmers' market of the state was introduced in Pune, citizens are pushing for their introduction in every ward of the city.Shripad Kulkarni, a Kothrud resident, is a regular buyer at the weekly farmers' market at Gandhi Bhavan. He says that the initiative is commendable. "For the last three years people have been able to purchase good quality vegetables here. The concept is working well and is beneficial for both the farmers and the buyers. Farmers provide a variety of vegetables at affordable rates. In fact, the project needs to be taken up in every ward so that people can purchase fresh products directly from farmers," Kulkarni said.The concept was introduced to establish a direct connect between farmers and consumers. Farmers' groups are now looking to start more markets with help of the Pune Municipal Corporation and the district administration.The Maharashtra State Agriculture Marketing Board plays a vital role in encouraging farmers to join the initiative.The first market was started at Gandhi Bhavan in Kothrud in June 2014. The concept has now covered the city's prominent areas like Baner, Balewadi, Warje, Katraj, Aundh, Sangvi, Pimple Saudagar, Wakad, etc.So far, farmers from Pune and Satara have joined the initiative. About five major farmers' societies are involved in the markets in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.Narendra Pawar of Shri Swami Samarth Shetkari Utpadak Company Ltd said his team of farmers operate about 14 markets in the city."Initially the response was not encouraging as farmers were sceptical about the idea. However, now many are enthusiastic to join the groups," Pawar said.On successful completion of three years, a function was held at the Gandhi Bhavan weekly farmers' market on Sunday. It was attended by minister of state for agriculture and marketing Sadabhau Khot.

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