Use modern technologies in foodgrain management and quality control to bring more transparency and minimal human interface, said Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, and Commerce and Industry, during a visit to the Food Corporation of India, UP Region in Lucknow.
He requested that all officers submit suggestions for improving the efficiency and modernity of the Food Corporation of India's operations.
While reviewing wheat and paddy procurement issues, he directed that FCI open more procurement centres covering almost all revenue districts so that farmers could sell their produce to FCI or any other agency.
He praised the use of E-POP machines at purchase centres in Uttar Pradesh and suggested that the same system be implemented in other states to increase transparency in the procurement system from farmers.
Considering the demand, population, and vast geographical area of Uttar Pradesh, the Union Minister directed that more Wheat be offered in the Open Market Sale Scheme in order to control the market price of Wheat.
While reviewing the state's storage capacities, Goyal stated that all FCI godowns, both owned and hired, should be of the highest quality. All godowns in poor condition should be immediately upgraded by performing necessary repairs, or they should be considered for dehiring.
Food grain management is a daunting task. It is primarily carried out by the Indian Food Corporation. In India, good food management is required. This is due to the fact that poor food management has a variety of consequences for our country. These include food losses or waste, inefficiency in reaching the masses, and food lost due to corrupt people.
