FDI in retail will boost agro-economy: Amarinder Singh

SANGRUR (PUNJAB): Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President Amarinder Singh on Sunday said that Foreign Direct Investment in retail would boost agricultural-based economy of the state.

"Organised multi-brand retail stores are in the interest of both the producers as well as the retailers and consumers," he said.

He pointed out if the farmers have the option of selling directly to retailers, the produce will reach the consumers at a lesser price.

While potatoes sell at an average of Rs 10 to 12 per kg in the market, farmers get less than a rupee per kg and profits are pocketed by middlemen, Amarinder said.

Criticising the Akalis for backing out of FDI, he said the ruling party had let down farmers.