Odisha to invest Rs 252 crore for revitalising cold storage units across state

In a significant push towards strengthening its agricultural infrastructure, the Odisha government has unveiled a plan to invest Rs 252 crore over the next 5 years in revitalising cold storage facilities across the state.

The initiative aims to restore non-functional cold storages by offering financial support up to Rs 1.5 crore for each defunct unit. By providing this assistance, the government seeks to ensure that these facilities become fully operational again, addressing the pressing need for better storage solutions in the state.

Moreover, the construction of new cold storage units in 58 sub-divisions is on the cards, enhancing the storage capacity and reducing post-harvest losses of agricultural produce. Out of the 18 cold storages in the state, only 3 are functional now. So, this move by the state government is crucial.

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

Enhanced Subsidy:

Under the initiative, the state government has announced a comprehensive subsidy for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), transgender individuals, and women. Eligible beneficiaries will receive a substantial subsidy of 60% up to a maximum of Rs 6.5 crore. The General category will also avail 50% subsidy.

This apart, the Odisha government has also announced a 50% electricity subsidy for the establishment of new cold storage facilities. This subsidy is available for duration of seven years, incentivizing long-term investment in agricultural infrastructure.

Hope for farmers:

The new initiative offers a glimmer of hope for farmers with the potential to reduce post-harvest losses and bolster income. These initiatives, focused on the enhancement of storage facilities, will go a long way to boost farmers' incomes significantly across Odisha. This will prevent the scarcity of essential commodities and control inflation, which in turn will benefit both producers and consumers alike.

Welcome move by Govt:

The Odisha state government's initiative to bolster cold storage facilities has been positively received across the region, promising a boost in the availability of essential staples like potatoes and onions. Farmers have emphasised the necessity of more produce reaching these facilities to sustain the increasing demand. This enhancement is crucial for both consumers and farmers, who are integral to Odisha's agricultural landscape.

Industry Reaction

“The state government has announced a comprehensive subsidy for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), transgender individuals, and women. Eligible beneficiaries will receive a substantial subsidy of 60% up to a maximum of Rs 6.5 crore. The General category will also avail 50% subsidy. The General category will also avail 50% subsidy. This apart, the Odisha government has also announced a 50% electricity subsidy for the establishment of new cold storage facilities,” CM Mohan Majhi announced. 

Subhendu Kumar Sahu, Co-ordinator of the State Cold Storage Owners Association, lauded the government's efforts and said, “The state government's focus on improving these facilities is commendable.”