New Delhi, August 20, 2013: In order to prevent wastage of foodgrains during supply chain, there is an elaborate mechanism to ensure procurement of good quality foodgrains, its safe storage, transportation and distribution. Foodgrains for central pool are procured conforming to the uniform specifications formulated by the Government. Procured foodgrains are to be stored in scientific storage system. During storage, prescribed code of practices are to be followed to avoid any damage/wastage. There is a regular monitoring mechanism under which inspections at all levels are carried out to ensure safe preservations of foodgrains in Food Corporation of India (FCI). To prevent wastage of foodgrain while in transit by rail/road, FCI takes necessary measures like loading of foodgrain in fit/cleaned railway wagons, usages of tarpaulins while road movement to avoid any kind of pilferage and contamination of foodgrain. Only covered rail wagons are to be used for movement of foodgrains. This information was given by the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Prof. K.V. Thomas in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today
He said that a number of steps are mandated to be followed by F.C.I. and State Government agencies for proper upkeep and quality to check damages to central pool stocks of foodgrains which include followiongs
• All godowns are to be constructed as per specifications.
• Foodgrains are to be stored by adopting proper scientific code of storage practices.
• Adequate dunnage materials such as wooden crates, bamboo mats, polythene sheets are to be used to check migration of moisture from the floor to the foodgrains.
• Fumigation covers, nylon ropes, nets and insecticides for control of stored grain insect pests are to be provided in all the godowns.
• Prophylactic (spraying of insecticides) and curative treatments (fumigation) are to be carried out regularly and timely in godowns for the control of stored grain insect pests.
• Effective rat control measures, both in covered godowns as well as in CAP storage are to be used.
• Foodgrains in ‘Cover and Plinth’ (CAP) storage are to be stored on elevated plinths and wooden crates are to be used as dunnage material. Stacks are to be properly covered with specifically fabricated low-density black polythene water -proof covers and tied with nylon ropes/nets.
• Regular periodic inspections of the stocks/godowns are to be undertaken by qualified and trained staff and all senior officers.
• The principle of “First in First Out” (FIFO) is to be followed to the extent possible so as to avoid longer storage of foodgrains in godowns.
• Only covered rail wagons are to be used for movement of foodgrains so as to avoid damage during transit.
Shri Thomas further said that the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture provides assistance under Horticulture Mission for North-East and Himalayan States (HMNEH) and National Horticulture Mission (NHM) schemes for development of infrastructure for post harvest management. This include establishment of cold storage and setting up of terminal markets, wholesale markets and rural primary markets/apni mandies to ensure adequate supply of fruits and vegetables to the consumers at reasonable prices and also to provide remunerative returns to the farmers. In addition, National Horticulture Board (NHB) provides assistance for establishment of cold storages for horticultural commodities.
— CCI Newswire
