Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Monday underlined the need for setting up climate-friendly and solar powered cold storages in the state.
Chairing a meeting at Krishi Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, the Deputy CM, who also holds Agriculture portfolio, outlined the strategy for strengthening cold storage network in the state.
The meeting discussed establishment of cold storages for preservation of fruits, vegetables, milk and milk-based products in all districts and sub-divisions of the state, official sources said.
The Deputy CM updated himself on the various aspects including cost of establishment of cold storages suitable for Odisha’s climate and weather conditions from service providers and domain experts.
He laid emphasis on establishment of climate-friendly cold storages keeping with climate change. Establishment of solar powered cold storages was discussed at meeting keeping in line with Prime Minister’s emphasis on use of renewable and solar energy for sustainable development.
The Deputy CM proposed that the entrepreneurs should take this opportunity to set up cold storages as the government is providing up to 70 per cent subsidy.
Principal Secretary, Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Arabinda Kumar Padhee and Commissioner cum Secretary of Cooperation Department Rajesh Prabhakar Patil attended the meeting.
Singh Deo advised the officers to visit the cold storage facilities already established and functioning successfully.
Representatives of various cold storage service providers participated in the meeting and shared information about the services provided by their respective organisations.
