Post-harvest management can save 25 MT of foodgrains: Assocham

India can save up to 25 million tonnes (MT) of foodgrain, about 10 per cent of its total production, if farmers adopt proper post-harvest management practices, according to the latest study by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham).

If farmers carry out activities such as post-harvest cleaning and grading, around 25 MT foodgrains can be saved from wastage, said the study titled 'Value addition in agricultural products in India'.

It said farmers sell foodgrains without cleaning and grading, which is then done by traders, leading to lower prices to farmers.

"There is a need to educate farmer community about traders' needs in terms of quality, grades and application of permissible preservatives for a longer shelf life," said D S Rawat, secretary general of Assocham.

The study said post-harvest infrastructure development is a pre-requisite for value addition in agri-exports.

"India can also tap the great potential for exporting 20 MT of rice, wheat, maize and other cereals without disturbing the domestic equilibrium."

Farmers must be informed that higher grades would fetch them better price and they should thus go for better varieties right from the time of sowing.

The study also pointed out that the existing system of large rice and wheat procurements by the government has de-incentivised the farmers to invest their time in cleaning and grading, as premium on better quality and grade is not commensurate with returns.