e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal that connects existing Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) or mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. Launched on 14th April 2016 by the Prime Minister of India, the scheme aims to create “One Nation, One Market” for agri-produce. The portal enables farmers to trade their produce through nearby e-NAM mandis while allowing traders to bid online from any location, thereby promoting transparency, real-time price discovery, and efficient transaction processes.
Key features include:
• Single Window Services: Integrates various APMC-related services such as commodity arrivals, quality assaying using AI-based machines, e-bidding, and direct e-payment settlement to farmers’ bank accounts.
• Technology-Driven Operations: Incorporates advanced tools for quality certification, warehousing, logistics, and error-free transaction reporting.
• Enhanced Market Access: Facilitates greater accessibility to multiple markets and buyers, helping farmers secure better prices while reducing transaction costs.
The Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the lead agency for implementing e-NAM under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Several states and Union Territories have integrated their mandis with e-NAM, such as the Horticulture Planning & Marketing Department in Jammu & Kashmir, which has already integrated 11 mandis.
Benefits
• Transparent Online Trading: Provides a uniform platform for trading agricultural commodities across India.
• Real-Time Price Discovery: Ensures that prices are determined based on actual market demand and supply.
• Better Price Realization for Farmers: Helps farmers achieve higher returns through competitive bidding.
• Reduced Transaction Costs: Benefits both farmers and buyers by streamlining transaction processes.
• Stable Prices and Quality Assurance: Contributes to better market stability and availability of quality produce for consumers.
• Efficient Supply Chain: Facilitates improved warehousing, logistics, and convenient e-payment options.
• Enhanced Accessibility: Connects farmers to more APMCs and expands market opportunities nationwide.
Eligibility
For States/UTs to avail assistance under the scheme, they must implement mandatory reforms in their respective APMC Acts covering:
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Single Trading License: Issuance of a unified trading license valid across the state/UT to all eligible traders.
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Single Point Levy of Market Fee: A one-time levy of the market fee at the first transaction only, with no subsequent charges on the same produce.
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Provision for e-Auction/e-Trading: Establishing the legal framework and infrastructure to support electronic trading.
States/UTs meeting these prerequisites are eligible for a one-time grant to purchase necessary hardware, internet connectivity, assaying equipment, and other infrastructure for e-NAM integration. Proposals are submitted on a prescribed proforma and, once approved, come with additional requirements such as trading 100% of selected agricultural commodities through e-trading and linking markets with Soil Testing Laboratories (STLs).
Application Process
Online Registration for Farmers:
• Step 01: Visit http://enam.gov.in/NAMV2/home/other_register.html
• Step 02: Select “Registration Type” as “Farmer” and choose the desired APMC.
• Step 03: Provide a correct email ID to receive your Login ID and Password.
• Step 04: Log in to the Dashboard and complete APMC registration following the flashing instructions on the portal.
• Step 05: After successful registration, your application will be reviewed and the status communicated via email.
Registration for Traders and FPOs/FPCs:
• Traders: Register by selecting “Trader” on the same portal, upload required KYC and license details, and await approval by the designated APMC.
• FPOs/FPCs: They can register either via the portal or by visiting the nearest e-NAM mandi and providing relevant organizational details along with bank account information.
Sources and References
• Guidelines
• Registration (Visit e-NAM Portal)
• Official Website