The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
Punjab has a well-developed network of mandis (agricultural markets), cold storage facilities, and food processing units. These facilities help to ensure that the state’s agricultural produce is properly stored and processed, and that it reaches markets both within and outside the state.
Mandis are important for the marketing of agricultural produce. They provide a platform for farmers to sell their produce, and they also provide a range of services such as grading, weighing, and storage. Cold storage facilities are important for the preservation of agricultural produce. They help to keep produce fresh for longer periods of time, which allows it to be transported to markets further afield. Food processing units are important for the value addition of agricultural produce. They help to convert raw produce into processed products, which can be sold at a higher price.
The development of these facilities has helped to boost the agricultural sector in Punjab. It has also helped to create jobs and improve the livelihoods of farmers in the state.
Here is some additional information about each of the options:
- Mandis (agricultural markets): Mandis are wholesale markets for agricultural produce. They are an important part of the agricultural marketing system in India. Mandis are regulated by the government, and they provide a platform for farmers to sell their produce. They also provide a range of services such as grading, weighing, and storage.
- Cold storage facilities: Cold storage facilities are used to store agricultural produce at low temperatures. This helps to keep the produce fresh for longer periods of time. Cold storage facilities are important for the preservation of agricultural produce, and they allow it to be transported to markets further afield.
- Food processing units: Food processing units are used to convert raw agricultural produce into processed products. This helps to add value to agricultural produce, and it allows it to be sold at a higher price. Food processing units are an important part of the agricultural value chain, and they help to create jobs and improve the livelihoods of farmers.