India is known for its rich agricultural heritage, but the country faces significant challenges in optimizing its harvest and reducing food waste. Farmers like Kapil Jain have been experimenting with innovative techniques to tackle these issues. By leveraging technology and adopting sustainable practices, Jain and other farmers are making strides towards reducing post-harvest losses and improving the efficiency of the agricultural supply chain.
One of the key problems faced by Indian farmers is the perishability of certain crops. Traditional crops like wheat, rice, mustard, and soya beans require a significant amount of water, which exacerbates water shortages in regions like Rajasthan. Jain decided to grow roses instead, as they require less water and thrive in sunny conditions. However, the challenge arose during the harvesting and transportation process. Roses need to be sold within hours of being picked to prevent the petals from falling. Moreover, the market was located 20 miles away, and the journey could take up to an hour. To address these challenges, Jain decided to convert the roses into rose water and rose oil, as these products have a longer shelf life. Additionally, he invested in a solar-powered drying system for his tomato crop, which helped extend the shelf life of the produce. By diversifying his products and implementing innovative drying techniques, Jain was able to mitigate his losses and expand his business.
This issue of post-harvest losses is not isolated to individual farmers like Jain. Government data shows that India lost between 4% and 15% of its fruit, vegetables, and cereals in 2022. These losses are primarily attributed to a lack of infrastructure, limited processing capacity, and natural disasters such as cyclones and floods. Varun Raheja, founder of Raheja Solar Food Processing, recognized the need for a low-cost and accessible solution for small-scale farmers. He developed a simple air drying system that utilizes sunlight and solar-powered fans to dry produce efficiently. The DIY model of the solar dryer makes it portable and affordable for every small farmer, enabling them to reduce their post-harvest losses. Raheja’s innovation has gained popularity, with the sale of around 3,000 solar dryers. Furthermore, Raheja acts as a middleman, buying dried produce from farmers and selling them to larger firms, creating a sustainable market for these value-added products.
While low-tech solutions like Raheja’s air drying system have proven effective, some agritech companies are leveraging high-tech approaches to tackle food waste. WayCool, an Indian agri-tech firm, utilizes data analysis and modern distribution systems to forecast demand and optimize supply chains. With a network of 412 distribution centers and partnerships with 200,000 farmers, WayCool handles a significant volume of fresh produce daily. By employing technology to predict retailer orders, optimize collection centers, and set target prices, WayCool brings supply chain losses to under 2%. The company has raised substantial funding to further expand its network and aims to become profitable by 2025. Such technological innovations hold great promise in reducing food waste and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
However, while these examples showcase the potential of technology and innovative practices, there is still much work to be done, particularly in reaching remote farmers. Farmers like Sagar Lokhande face challenges in transporting their produce to markets without proper storage and temperature control facilities. As a result, they often have to sell their crops at a loss when prices drop due to oversupply. Lokhande is now exploring the option of freezing his produce to extend its shelf life and fetch a better price. Freezing vegetables, especially cash crops like beans, can provide a lucrative opportunity for farmers to repay their loans and increase their income.
Marcella D’Souza, the director of the Centre for Resilience Studies, emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to support Indian farmers. While technology plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and decision-making, it should be complemented by efforts to restore natural ecosystems and preserve traditional knowledge. Handholding support, access to credit, and other factors are equally important in ensuring the success of farming initiatives.
The innovations and practices highlighted in this article demonstrate the potential for technology to transform India’s agricultural landscape and reduce food waste. By embracing sustainable and tech-driven solutions, farmers can mitigate losses, improve market access, and increase their income. However, it is vital to continue developing accessible and affordable solutions that cater to the diverse needs of small-scale farmers, especially those in remote regions. With concerted efforts from government bodies, agritech companies, and support organizations, India can harness the power of technology to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
