Odisha aims to set up cold storage facilities in every block: Minister Krushna Patra

Odisha government has an ambitious plan to set up cold storage facilities in every block of the state. This was informed by Minister of Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare, Krushna Chandra Patra on Monday.

The strategic move is aimed at effectively preserving surplus agricultural produce and minimising food waste. Furthermore, to bolster the agricultural economy, the Minister stated that regions lacking marketplaces or mandis, would get new market systems.

This initiative seeks to empower local farmers by maintaining the integrity of their produce and ensuring they receive equitable pricing for their goods. Efficient preservation methods are central to maintaining the quality and shelf life of agricultural products, which in turn supports farmers' economic stability.

The success of halting crop waste lies in our ability to ensure state-of-the-art cold storage facilities, the Minister further stated adding that Odisha government has been successful in addressing the issue of Katni-Chatni during paddy procurement in mandis.

Earlier, Odisha government had unveiled a plan to invest Rs 252 crore over the next 5 years in revitalising cold storage facilities across the state. The move aims at restoration of non-functional cold storages by offering financial support up to Rs 1.5 crore for each defunct unit.

Also Read: Odisha to set up cold storages in 58 sub-divisions, informs Agriculture Minister in Assembly

On increasing potato production, the Minister said that the state government is taking appropriate steps and the impact will be seen in the next one or two years. The previous government had not taken any concrete steps but the new government is giving due importance to various issues that are essential to reduce state’s dependency on other states, he added.