STORAGE STRUCTURES
Introduction
To cope with the current and future demand of the increasing population for the food grains, it is emphasized to reduce the loss of seeds during and after harvest. seeds are stored for varying periods to ensure proper and balanced public distribution through out the year. Post harvest losses in India are estimated to be around 10 per cent, of which the losses during storage alone are estimated to be 6.58 per cent. But, with the advent of improved agricultural technology, the producer can afford to store the seeds for longer period with minimum loss.
For best storage performance,
1. The produce must be thoroughly cleaned and graded,
2. Dried to the safe storage moisture level of 10-12 % for cereals and 7-9% for oil seeds (on wet basis) for a safe storage period of 6-12 months.
3. Storage structures should to be properly repaired, cleaned and disinfected,
4. Structures should bear the load of seeds stored and do not permit contact/
exchange with outside humid air,
5. Structures should be constructed in the coolest part of the house/ farm.
An ideal storage facility should satisfy the following requirements
1. It should provide maximum possible protection from ground moisture, rain, insect pests, moulds, rodents, birds, fore etc.,
2. It should provide the necessary facility for inspection, disinfection, loading, unloading, cleaning and reconditioning.
3. It should protect grain from excessive moisture and temperature favourable to both insect and mould development,
4. It should be economical and suitable for a particular situation
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