French Economist Prof. Annick Visits Vegetable and Apple Markets in Solan

Solan, August 22:
Renowned French economist Prof. Annick Vignes, currently on a research tour of Himachal Pradesh, visited the agriculture produce and apple markets in Solan on Friday. Prof. Annick, who is in the state for academic work at Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, observed the functioning of the markets, the auction system, and the buying–selling process between farmers and traders.

For many visitors present in the market, it was an unusual sight to see a foreign expert closely studying the local market system. Prof. Annick remarked that a similar auction-based system operates in France as well, where buyers offering the best price secure the produce. She said the level of coordination and understanding between farmers and traders in Indian markets was particularly interesting and worthy of study.

Prof. Annick is in India for about six weeks under the ACROPICS Project. During her academic stay, she is not only studying the economic model of natural farming but is also researching ways to enhance farmers’ income and strengthen marketing systems.

She added that apart from Solan, she will also visit the markets of Parwanoo, Bhattakuffar, Rohru, and Parala to study market operations, price determination, and farmer participation in greater depth.

Ph.D. scholars from Nauni University accompanied her during the visit and engaged in discussions at the market. Local market committee members and traders also briefed her about the functioning of the system. Prof. Annick said the opportunity to observe India’s market system up close has been extremely valuable, as it not only provides new direction to her research but also highlights the similarities and differences between the marketing structures of India and France.