In a landmark step toward enhancing agricultural infrastructure and supporting farmers, the Central Government of India has unveiled the world’s largest cooperative grain storage initiative. The initiative aims to significantly expand storage capacity across the country, reduce post-harvest losses, and empower farmers through better access to modern storage facilities.
Pilot Phase and Expansion Plans
During a Rajya Sabha briefing, Minister of State for Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, shared that 11 godowns have already been constructed across 11 states under the pilot phase of the project. In addition, more than 500 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) have been identified for the next phase of development. If fully implemented, this initiative will become the first large-scale cooperative effort globally to create a decentralized network of grain storage facilities.
Objectives and Benefits for Farmers
The cooperative-led model is designed to streamline storage infrastructure, eliminating unnecessary delays and inefficiencies in the agricultural value chain. By providing farmers with enhanced storage capacity, the initiative enables them to retain their produce for longer durations, thereby avoiding distress sales and negotiating better market prices. This approach is expected to increase farmers’ incomes while simultaneously reducing wastage and post-harvest losses.
Minister Mohol emphasized that expanding PACS’ storage capabilities could fundamentally transform the agriculture value chain in India. Improved access to storage facilities will allow farmers to plan sales strategically, align with market demand, and capture higher value for their produce. This shift is anticipated to strengthen the economic resilience of rural communities, offering farmers more financial stability and sustainability.
Contribution to Food Security
Beyond economic benefits, the initiative is aligned with the government’s broader food security objectives. By decentralizing grain storage infrastructure, the project ensures that surplus agricultural produce is stored safely and efficiently, supporting national reserves and reducing vulnerability to shortages. The program also enhances last-mile infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, facilitating better distribution and management of food stocks.
The launch of India’s cooperative grain storage initiative represents a transformative step in modernizing agricultural infrastructure. With a focus on decentralization, rural empowerment, and reduced post-harvest losses, the initiative is poised to benefit millions of farmers, improve income stability, and contribute significantly to national food security.
Summary:
The Central Government has launched the world’s largest cooperative grain storage initiative, building 11 godowns in 11 states and planning expansion to 500+ PACS. The project aims to reduce post-harvest losses, improve farmer incomes, and strengthen food security through enhanced storage capacity and decentralized infrastructure.
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