- WHAT ARE YOJANAS AND MISSION
- IF THEY ARE NOT PROPERLY IMPLEMENTED?? AND FOLLOWED UP.
- AGRI- GRADUATES HELP THE FARMERS FROM HAZARDS.
- PRACTICE WHAT YOU STUDY.
- HELP YOUR FARMERS PLEASE.
- However, a large quantity of paddy at direct procurement centres (DPCs) is still damaged each year due to rain and unfavourable weather conditions. The permissible moisture content for paddy is 17%, but during the September-October monsoon, moisture levels often rise to 19-21% in the delta region,” explained an official.
- https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Jun/02/stored-paddy-worth-rs-840-crore-spoiled-in-five-years-in-tn
- Proper storage of paddy in India involves a combination of time-tested traditional methods and modern, scientific techniques to minimize losses from moisture, pests, and mold.Best practices before storage.Regardless of the storage method, these critical preparation steps are essential for perfect paddy storage:
- Harvest at the right time: Harvest the paddy crop when the grain moisture is between 20–22%.
- Thorough drying: Immediately after threshing, clean the paddy grains to remove debris and dry them to a safe moisture level of 10–12%. This is crucial for preventing mold growth and insect infestation.
- Inspection: Ensure the grains are free from dirt, foreign particles, broken grains, and signs of infestation.
- Clean and disinfect structures: Whether using a traditional bin or a modern warehouse, the storage area must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before new grain is stored.
Modern storage techniquesFor large-scale, long-term, and commercial storage, India is increasingly adopting scientific methods to reduce post-harvest losses, which can be as high as 10–15% with traditional practices.- Silos: Large, modern silos made of steel or reinforced concrete are ideal for bulk storage, offering airtight, moisture-proof, and fire-proof conditions. They feature mechanical loading and unloading, as well as aeration and temperature monitoring systems.
- Warehouses and godowns: Agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) use large warehouses for storing paddy in bags. These facilities feature:
- Bag storage: Grains are packed in jute bags, often with plastic lining, and stacked on wooden pallets called dunnage to protect them from ground moisture.
- Controlled environment: Stacks are arranged with proper space for air circulation and inspection, and are treated with pesticides or fumigants as needed to prevent pests.
- Hermetic storage: This method uses airtight containers or bags that cut off the oxygen supply, preventing the growth of insects and fungi without the use of chemicals. It is highly effective for both large and small-scale storage.
Traditional and improved on-farm storage methodsAt the rural and household levels, farmers often use smaller, indigenous storage structures. The designs have been improved over time to enhance their effectiveness.- Pusa bin: Developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, this is an improved mud storage structure lined with a thick polyethylene film to make it moisture-proof and airtight.
- Metal bins: Galvanized iron or steel bins are a durable option, produced commercially in various sizes (from 1 to 10 tonnes). They are resistant to moisture, fire, and rodents.
- Indigenous structures: Many regional variations of storage bins are still in use, often with modern modifications.
- Mud and bamboo structures (Kanaja/Bukhari): Found in states like Karnataka and Maharashtra, these cylindrical structures are made from bamboo or mud and plastered with a mud and cow dung mixture to create a seal.
- Wooden boxes (Kothar/Bhakar): Rectangular wooden bins are elevated on pillars to prevent moisture and rodent damage.
Protective additives for on-farm storageTo repel pests, farmers often mix natural, non-toxic plant materials with the grain before storing it.- Neem leaves: Dried neem leaves are placed among the grains to repel insects with their pungent smell.
- Common salt: For short-term storage (up to 6 months), mixing a small amount of common salt with paddy can help control moth and weevil infestation.
- Turmeric or walnut leaves: These are also used in storage bags to act as insect repellents.
How to choose the right methodThe ideal storage system for paddy depends on the amount to be stored, the intended duration, and the local climate.- For small quantities (household): Airtight metal or plastic bins, hermetic bags, or Pusa bins are effective for storing grain for personal consumption.
- For medium quantities (on-farm): Improved structures like Pusa bins or small-to-medium-sized metal bins are reliable options.
- For large quantities (commercial): Modern silos and government warehouses provide the most advanced, controlled environment for preserving large volumes of paddy.
- The best method depends on the scale of storage, regional climate, and budget.
- http://www.knowledgebank.irri.org/step-by-step-production/
- postharvest/storage
- https://www.sushma-industries.com/industrialshed-material-handling-equipment.html
- https://www.jugalenterprises.com/temporary-
- monsoon-sheds.html
- Tarun Palan (Proprietor)
Jugal Enterprises
Shop No. 112,1st Floor,Block No.1, Emerald Plaza, Hiranandani Meadows, Pokhran Road No. 2
Thane - 400610, Maharashtra, India
Shop No. 112,1st Floor,Block No.1, Emerald Plaza, Hiranandani Meadows, Pokhran Road No. 2
Thane - 400610, Maharashtra, India
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