Lok Sabha passes two bills related to agriculture marketing; SAD, Congress oppose legislations

Lok Sabha on Thursday passed two bills related to "reforms" in agriculture marketing after a debate with Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar stating that the legislations will "end licence raj" and farmers will be free to sell their agricultural produce according to their choice.

BJP's ally Shirom Akali Dal opposed the two bills. Several opposition parties including the Congress also strongly opposed the bills.

The House passed the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion And Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and the Farmers (Empowerment And Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020.

The bills seek to replace two ordinances brought by the government earlier this year.

Tomar in his reply sought to allay apprehension of members opposing the bill.

"Both these acts will empower the agricultural economy," he said.

( With inputs from ANI )