India has Sufficient Storage capacity for Foodgrains

There is sufficient storage capacity available with Food Corporation of India (FCI) and Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) to store foodgrains. FCI have 1549 godowns with total storage capacity of 243.40 lakh tonnes (Owned & hired/Covered & CAP) against which total stocks held as on 31.10.2008 was 147.72 lakh tonnes. CWC have 492 godowns with total storage capacity of 98.15 lakh MTs against which stock held on 31.10.2008 was 73.95 lakh MTs.

All godowns of FCI have been constructed as per ISI Code 607.1071 and likewise, CWC is storing foodgrains in its warehouses by adopting scientific methods. All godowns are being maintained properly. Hence, storage loss in FCI and CWC godowns is not attributed to poor storage and deficient management.

The Central Government has taken the following steps to provide better storage facilities in the godowns of FCI and CWC:

1. All godowns are constructed as per specification and foodgrains are stored by adopting scientific storage practices.

2. Adequate dunnage material, fumigation covers and chemicals are provided in all the godowns.

3. Prophylactic and curative treatments are carried out regularly and timely for the control of insects and pests.

4. Foodgrains in 'cover and plinth' (CAP) storage are stored on elevated plinths and wooden crates are used as dunnage material. Stacks are properly covered with specifically fabricated low density black polythene water proof covers and tied with nylon ropes/nets.

5. Regular inspections of the stocks/godowns are undertaken by qualified and trained staff.

6. The principle of 'First In First Out' (FIFO) is adopted to the extent possible so as to avoid longer storage of foodgrains in the godowns.

7. Only covered wagons are used for movement of foodgrains so as to avoid damages during transit.

Source : Press Information Bureau

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