Pimpri: The initiative to encourage farmers to directly sell their  fruits, vegetable and food grains to consumers has become a hit in Moshi area. The centre, called Green Mall, has benefitted farmers as well as residents of over 40 housing societies. The centre was inaugurated at River Residency on Moshi Chikhali Road.

Farmers from Jachakwadi in Akole taluka of Ahmednagar district located around 120 km from Pimpri-Chinchwad will supply vegetables and food grains daily. 

The cost of the vegetables and fruits sold at this centre are 30 per cent lower than the market price. 

The centre was inaugurated on Sunday by  progressive farmers from Moshi village Sitaram Karpe and Rambhau Barane.

Associate Editor of Sakal in Pimpri-Chinchwad Avinash Chilekar was present as chief guest. 

Social activist Vikas Sane provided space for the centre free of cost.  He also constructed a shade for the centre. 

Sane said, “Some farmers used to visit big residential societies in the city. Residents  opposed this as it was, according to them, against the society rules. So they called me for intervention.

After speaking to the farmers we came to know that they are struggling to get  space for selling their products though the marketing board is promoting direct sale of agriculture produce.

If we get a good response we are going to increase such centres along with mobile vehicles selling fruits and vegitables directly to the end user.” 

Retired Navy officer Vijay Auti, agri- entrepreneur Bhausaheb Kokate, businessman Santosh Barane and representatives of 40 housing societies in the area were present for the inauguration function.