International Conference on Controlled Atmosphere and Fumigation in Stored Products begins

7^th November 2016, New Delhi

New technology, improvement in design of godowns, mechanization of grain handling in godowns, environment control and fumigation etc. in godowns requires attention, said Shri Avinash Srivastava, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries. He inaugurated the 10th International Conference on Controlled Atmosphere and Fumigation, here today. In his inaugural address, he said, preventing postharvest losses will make more food grain available for consumption and will enhance the income levels of farmers.

Shri Srivastava hoped that good recommendations for storage and prevention of postharvest losses and come up with valuable suggestions for the benefit of farmers as well as consumers not only for India but for the world.

This six-day conference which takes place once in four years, is conducted in India for the first time. Previous to this the conference was conducted in countries like Canada, USA, Australia, China, Singapore, Turkey, Italy and Cyprus.

On the occasion, Guest of Honour, Shri Sunil Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor (DARE/ICAR) hoped, the discussions and interactions during the Conference will bring industry, scientists and officials on a common platform to address the issues pertaining to storage of grains, protection of grains from insects and pests, regulatory issues, etc.

Dr. K. Alagusundaram, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Engineering), ICAR, in his welcome address, said the conference will be an eye opener for Indian researchers and industries considering to reduce the use of chemicals and to seek alternate and chemical free methods of fumigation.

Dr. S. Navarro, Chairman CAF International Permanent Committee, Dr. D. S. Jayas, Vice President Research and International, University of Manitoba, Canada & Secretary CAF International Permanent Committee were also present there.

More than 450 participants including 150 foreign participants from 23 different countries are participating in the Conference.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. V. V. Ramamurthy, Co-Chair Organizing Committee, CAF2016. 

(Source: CPPRO, ICAR)