What's Happening?
The Odisha government has announced plans to establish 58 cold storage units by 2029-2030, with an investment of Rs 252 crore. This initiative, led by Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo, aims to enhance
the state's cold chain infrastructure and strengthen market linkages for farmers. The announcement was made at the Cold Storage Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet, organized by the Agricultural Promotion & Investment Corporation of Odisha Ltd (APICOL) and ASSOCHAM. The government plans to offer capital investment subsidies and interest reimbursements to revitalize defunct units and ensure the viability of new projects.
Why It's Important?
The development of cold storage facilities is crucial for Odisha's agricultural sector, which has been a rice-surplus state for over a decade. By improving storage capabilities, the state can reduce post-harvest losses, stabilize prices, and enhance the income of farmers. This initiative is expected to attract private investment and foster a market-led agricultural economy. The move aligns with the state's goal to transition towards a more sustainable and profitable agricultural model, benefiting both producers and consumers.
What's Next?
The successful implementation of this project will require collaboration between the government, private investors, and agricultural stakeholders. The state will need to ensure that the proposed incentives are attractive enough to draw private investment. Additionally, the government may need to address logistical challenges and ensure that the cold storage units are strategically located to maximize their impact. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be essential to assess the project's progress and make necessary adjustments.
