Odisha's Rs 252 Crore Cold Storage Revolution by 2030

The Odisha government plans to establish 58 cold storage units with a Rs 252 crore investment by 2029-2030, aiming to strengthen market linkages for farmers through robust cold chain infrastructure. The initiative includes subsidies and interest reimbursement to revitalize defunct units and promote private investment.

The Odisha government is setting ambitious plans to install 58 cold storage units by fiscal year 2029-2030 at an investment of Rs 252 crore. This move, announced by Deputy Chief Minister K V Sigh Deo, is geared towards enhancing the cold chain infrastructure to create stronger market linkages for farmers.

Deo revealed these plans during the Cold Storage Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet, organized by APICOL in collaboration with ASSOCHAM. The strategy includes capital investment subsidies and interest reimbursement to rejuvenate defunct storage facilities, ensuring their long-term viability.

Speaking at the event, Arabinda Padhee, Principal Secretary of the agriculture department, emphasized Odisha's shift towards market-driven agriculture. He reported that the state, a rice-surplus region for 16-17 years, has developed a cold storage policy with incentives to attract private investment.

(With inputs from agencies.)