AgroSpectrum - February 2023

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A Midas Touch For Agri Waste
Human endeavours have scaled new heights in all spheres of 'civilisational' comforts and scientific advancement, including growing resilient and high-yielding crops. Agricultural activity has reached the zenith of modern food cultivation potential. Yet, one common thread of these endeavours is the sheer volume of waste
generated. Agriculture and allied industries, too, are bogged down by this. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) statistics show that annually India generates about 500 million tonnes of agricultural and agro-industrial leftovers. According to a recent media report, between 16 and 17 million metric tonnes (MMT)
of grains are lost each year due to inefficient food management systems. Unscientific grain harvesting and storage practices are mostly to blame for this problem. The same holds true for the massive wastage of fresh fruits, vegetables, milk and dairy products every year due to antiquated storage, transport and distribution methods. However, numerous initiatives are now being taken to minimise and convert this agricultural waste into various types of products and services. As things are changing for the better, although at a slow pace, let’s take this up with a few industry insiders who can shine some light on this pressing issue.