SRINAGAR: In a significant step towards addressing post-harvest losses and enhancing food preservation in Jammu and Kashmir, the government has been ramping up efforts to improve cold chain infrastructure. As per a recent response in the Rajya Sabha, Jammu and Kashmir has a total cold storage capacity of 3.22 lakh metric tonnes (MT) as of May 2024.
Despite this, the Union Territory has a growing requirement for more cold chain facilities to match its needs for preserving both horticultural and non-horticultural produce, which stands at a target of over 9 lakh MT, based on the 2014-15 urban population data provided by the National Centre for Cold-chain Development (NCCD).
The Centre’s Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure scheme, introduced under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), has played a pivotal role in bridging the infrastructure gap in the region. This scheme provides subsidies of up to 50 per cent of the total project cost for difficult areas like Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to reduce post-harvest losses by providing integrated cold chain facilities from farm gates to consumers.
Over the years, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed gradual progress in building its cold storage and transportation facilities. The scheme has encouraged investments from both public and private sectors, with numerous projects currently in progress. Since 2008, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries has approved 399 cold chain projects, creating a robust network that includes 474 cold storage facilities and 1,477 refrigerated vehicles across the country. These projects have not only improved food availability but also supported 1,71,600 jobs and benefitted over 27 million farmers nationwide.
Nationally, the cold chain sector has made significant strides, with a total cold storage capacity of 39.6 million MT as of 2024, though the country still faces a shortfall of nearly 29 million MT. Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat are currently the leading states in cold chain infrastructure, contributing significantly to the overall capacity. The sector is crucial for sectors such as dairy, meat, poultry, and seafood, providing year-round access to fresh produce and ensuring fair pricing for farmers.
