Prayagraj: Efforts to promote healthy eating and organic farming in Prayagraj have hit a roadblock after the district’s dedicated market at Mundera Mandi was shut down due to poor response and lack of buyers. Now, authorities are planning to open a new market for organic products in the Civil Lines area to connect farmers directly with consumers from higher income groups.The initiative is being taken at a time when both the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh govt are actively promoting organic products and “Shri Anna” or millet-based food items for healthier lifestyles.Organic farming in the district was promoted extensively during and after the Covid period. Several hectares of farmland were gradually brought under organic cultivation, and after nearly two years of soil preparation and adaptation, farmers began producing organic vegetables and grains on a larger scale. However, marketing the produce soon emerged as a major challenge.To support farmers, the Mandi Parishad had earlier developed an organic market within Mundera Mandi for Rs 40 lakh. The market was created specifically to provide farmers with a space to sell organic produce directly to consumers. Despite initial operations, the market eventually failed to sustain itself due to low footfall and weak publicity.Deputy director, agriculture, Pawan Kumar Vishwakarma said the market had to be shut because the wholesale nature of Mundera Mandi did not support retail organic sales. He explained that most people visit the mandi for bulk purchases, while organic products are comparatively more expensive and generally attract a different consumer base.Officials now believe that opening the market in Civil Lines may provide better visibility and access to buyers willing to spend more on premium-quality organic food. The Mandi Export Promotion Group of the Mandi Parishad is currently looking for a suitable location in the area, and the market is expected to open soon.Meanwhile, several farmers associated with Farmer Producer Groups are selling organic produce through mobile vans and temporary outlets at different locations across the district. Authorities hope the new initiative will revive demand and provide much-needed support to farmers engaged in organic cultivation.
