Integrated digital mechanism, grading launched for Keralam’s special Onam markets this year
The Kerala Agriculture department has introduced an integrated digital system for its 2,000 special Onam markets to streamline farmer payments and improve operational efficiency. The system includes direct benefit transfers and a new grading mechanism to foster competition and ensure price stability for consumers.
Why it matters
The implementation of digital infrastructure in state-run agricultural markets demonstrates a move toward modernization and transparency in public distribution systems.
In a first, the Agriculture department in Keralam has launched an integrated digital mechanism at the special Onam markets that will enable prompt payments to farmers for their produce, and also grade the markets in terms of sales turnover and efficiency.
The integrated system was launched during the formal inauguration of 2,000 Onam markets here on Saturday (August 22, 2026). Vegetables and fruits are procured from farmers at a 10% higher price than that of the open market and sold to the public at a 30% discount rate. The markets were inaugurated by Agriculture Minister T. Siddique.
The integrated digital mechanism permits the department to keep track of all activities right from the procurement from farmers to the sales through the Onam markets. It also allows direct benefit transfer (DBT) of the payment to the farmers’ bank accounts without delay, the department said.
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