New Rules Tighten Quality Standards for Fruits and Vegetables
The Government of India has introduced stricter quality standards for fruits and vegetables with the notification of the Fruits and Vegetables Grading and Marking (Amendment) Rules, 2024. These amendments are aimed at ensuring food safety and enhancing the quality of produce both for domestic consumption and export.
New Tea, Spice and Rubber Rules, 2024
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has notified three new rules on tea, spices and rubber. The aim of these rules is to streamline the process of inquiry and appeal related to violations under their corresponding Acts. These rules were published on August 9, 2024 and have come into immediate effect.
New Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets (General) Amendments Rules 2024
The latest amendment aims to simplify processes for government purchase agencies involved in agricultural markets. By exempting these agencies from the requirements of KYC documentation and bank guarantees, the amendment is set to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and facilitate smoother operations.
Date Notified For Enforcement Of Jan Vishwas Act On Agricultural Produce Grading and Marking
The Central Government has appointed the July 31, 2024 as the official day on which provisions of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 pertaining to amendments to the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937 will come into force. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 has reduced the punishment given to a person who marks any scheduled article with a grade designation mark without authorization, or counterfeits any grade designation mark or sells sells any scheduled article which is misgraded.
PM-KISAN Scheme: New Transformation for Farmer Welfare in India
The PM-KISAN scheme, along with MSP policies and procurement mechanisms, showcases the Indian government’s dedicated efforts to support and sustain the agricultural sector. By ensuring timely financial assistance, transparent transactions, and fair pricing, these initiatives aim to bolster the livelihoods of farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country.
New CPI Numbers for Agricultural and Rural Labourers – June 2024
There has been a noticeable change in the All-India Consumer Price Index (CPI) for both Agricultural Labourers (CPI-AL) and Rural Labourers (CPI-RL).
Tea Board of India Issues New Compliance Directives for 2024
On July 15, 2024, the Tea Board of India issued new directives requiring mandatory compliance from all tea manufacturers. This advance notice is to ensure adequate time for planning. Non-compliance will lead to actions under Clause 5(1)(d) of the Tea (Marketing) Control Order, 2003, which may include penalties, license suspension, or other appropriate measures.
Government of Uttar Pradesh Issues New Minimum rates of Wages
The Government of Uttar Pradesh notified the minimum rates of wages payable to the employees employed in agricultural employment in the state of Uttar Pradesh on July 9th 2024. The Minimum Rates of Wages have been revised to Rs. 6162/- per month or Rs. 237/- per day for the following types of agricultural works, for the whole of Uttar Pradesh:
Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises
The fund will offer both equity and debt support, specifically targeting high-risk, high- impact activities in the agriculture value chain.
West Bengal Governments New GST Amendment
On July 16, 2024, the Government of West Bengal revised the minimum wages for employees in 30 scheduled employments. The updated rates will be effective from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
