Noidawallahs enjoy a bright Sunday at Sector 47 Farmers' Market

With pink floral decor as the Valentine's Day theme, Sector 47 residents' group, Green Crusaders, kicked off the 15th leg of the weekly Farmers' Market on a bright Sunday morning. Just like every week, the market saw vendors from across the country showcasing their herbal and chemical-free produce. However, this Sunday was special as Sriparna Ganguly, Additional Commissioner of Police, Noida, and Vrinda Shukla, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Women’s Safety), Noida paid a visit to the market. "We are delighted that top brass of Noida police visited the market. Their support can help us hold such events in the city without any disruptions," said Deepa Singh Bagai, former IAS officer, who is a resident of Sector 47 and a member of Green Crusaders.
Sriparna Ganguly, Additional Commissioner of Police, Noida, sampling regional delights
'A mix of urban and rustic ways of life at the market'
Canopies with tables, chairs and khaats added a farm-like feel. "Residents are putting this time to great use by organising such a lively market under the sun. I love the ambiance here as it is a mix of urban and rustic ways of life," said Sriparna. Meanwhile Vrinda filled her bags with fresh produce from the market, including leafy vegetables, cucumber and tomatoes. "I am a big fan of farmers' markets and am glad that Noida also has one now," she said, adding, "I like that this market discourages use of plastic. When I was invited I was asked to carry my own bag, which is how every market should be."

Locally sourced products a hit at the market
The market offers a host of products, including farm-fresh vegetables and fruits , breads, milk products , fresh seafood, exotic teas and self-care products. "Each vendor is screened to check if their produce is chemically-free, locally sourced and healthy or not," said Devyani Vohra, a member of Green Crusaders.
CRPF band added a cheer to the market
PS Nagar, President of Sector 47 Residents' Welfare Association, added, "All revenue generated from the market is donated to the sector." Most of the vendors at the market are small entrepreneurs and local farmers from across the country. Ankur Saini, a vendor, said, "I belong to a farmer's family from Meerut. I work at an IT firm during the week, and help my family sell produce during the weekend."
Deepa Singh Bagai, former IAS officer and one of the organisers
A day celebrating love for earth
Every year, the Farmers' Market in Sector 47 is held from October to March. This is the second season of the market after it started in 2018. Each week, the market has a new theme and this week, it was – Earth is my Valentine. "While people tend to dedicate Valentine's Day to people whom they love, we decided to dedicate this day of love to our Earth," said Deepa Singh Bagai.