The Maharashtra government has taken decisive steps to address illegal farm produce trading and the use of harmful chemicals in fruits and vegetables. State Marketing Minister Jai Kumar Rawal highlighted that strict actions will be enforced against traders and companies operating without the necessary licenses as mandated by the Maharashtra Agricultural Produce Marketing law. Complaints have surfaced regarding unauthorized transactions, prompting the Directorate of Marketing to issue a circular emphasizing that all agricultural produce trading must be licensed through the relevant Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC). Additionally, the government has prohibited the use of harmful chemicals for artificially ripening and coloring produce. Regular inspections by APMCs and private market committees will be conducted to ensure compliance, and violators may face legal repercussions under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The government is also encouraging the use of environmentally friendly materials for the storage and transport of agricultural goods. Rawal urged all stakeholders to adhere to these regulations to safeguard consumer health and promote fair trade practices.