The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Agricultural marketing comprises all activities involved in moving farm produce from the producers to the consumers. Government intervention in this sector aims to regulate markets, develop physical infrastructure, and promote cooperative marketing to ensure fair prices for farmers.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The first major measure initiated by the government was the regulation of markets to create orderly and transparent marketing conditions. This led to the establishment of regulated markets (APMCs) to protect farmers from malpractices such as false weights and unauthorized deductions.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: While cooperative marketing has achieved significant success in specific sectors (such as milk in Gujarat) and certain regions, it has not been fully successful across all parts of the country. Issues such as inadequate coverage, lack of funds, and management inefficiencies have limited its uniform success.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The government has actively initiated schemes to develop marketing infrastructure. This includes the construction of cold storages, warehouses, and rural godowns to prevent post-harvest losses and facilitate better price realization for farmers.
Key Takeaway
Government policy on agricultural marketing rests on three pillars: regulation of markets (APMCs), expansion of physical infrastructure (storage and transport), and the promotion of cooperative marketing, though the latter has seen mixed success regionally.