Storage Godowns Through Private Entrepreneurs
Due to the increased procurement of foodgrains and to reduce the storage under Cover and Plinth (CAP), the Government formulated a Scheme for construction of storage godowns through private entrepreneurs, Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) and State Warehousing Corporations (SWCs). A capacity of about 151 lakh tonnes is to be created in 19 states under the scheme. This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Prof. K.V. Thomas in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.
The minister said that the Government has launched “Grameen Bhandaran Yojana” with effect from 01.04.2001. The main objectives of the scheme include creation of scientific storage capacity with allied facilities in rural areas to meet out various requirements of farmers for storing farm produce, processed farm produce, agricultural inputs, etc., and prevention of distress sale by creating the facility of pledge loan and marketing credit.
Under the revised scheme with effect from 26.06.2008, subsidy @ 25% is being given to all categories of farmers, agriculture graduates, cooperative and Central Warehousing Corporation/ State Warehousing Corporations. All other categories of individuals, companies and corporations are being given subsidy @15% of the project cost. In case of North Eastern States/hilly areas and SC/ST entrepreneurs and their cooperatives and women farmers, subsidy shall be 33.33%. The scheme will continue during the whole period of XIth Plan with a target of 90 lakhs tonnes and a Budget allocation of Rs.400 crores.
Various steps are taken by FCI to prevent damage to foodgrains. Prophylactic and curative measures are carried out regularly for the control of insects/pests. Effective rodent control measures are also undertaken. Regular quality checks are conducted to ensure proper preservation of foodgrains in storage. Adequate dunnage is provided for the foodgrain stocks stored in CAP. The dunnage material is cleaned and disinfected. To protect the CAP stocks from rain, sun, etc. each stack is covered with a polythene cover. The polythene covers are tied with nylon ropes. Wheat stocks stored in CAP by the State Govts/Agencies are subjected to joint inspection on a regular basis by officers of FCI and the concerned State Govts./Agencies. Stocks are generally issued on the principle of “First in First Out” (FIFO).
***
NCJ