HERMETIC STORAGE TECHNOLOGY FOR SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN INDIA

Abstract

The development of new storage technique is the important consideration to reduces the storage losses. While fulfilling the food demand of an increasing population remains a major global concern, more than one-third of food is lost or wasted in postharvest operations. Reducing the postharvest losses, especially in India , could be a sustainable solution to increase food availability, reduce pressure on natural resources, eliminate hunger and improve farmers’ livelihoods and its recent need as well as Eco-friendly technology for doubling farmers income. Cereal grains are the basis of staple food in most of the developing nations, and account for the maximum postharvest losses on a calorific basis among all agricultural commodities. As much as50%–60% cereal grains can be lost during the storage stage due only to the lack of technical inefficiency. The present research was inform that the necessity of the new storage technology in the market. This paper also shows results of previous study of hermetic storage. Use of hermetic storage methods can reduce these losses to as low as 1%–2%. The study has revealed that hermetic bags provide a safe and convenient method for farmers to preserve their agricultural commodities. Hence, the adoption of hermetic bags must be encouraged in the developing countries and also this study provides a comprehensive literature review of the grain postharvest losses in developing countries, the status and causes of storage losses and technological interventions to reduce the post harvest losses. Millions of farmers in India depend on cereal and legumes for food security as well as to get more income. Storage is a key challenge due to insect damage after harvest. The basics of hermetic storage, and their effectiveness on several crops in different localities are discussed in detail.