In a groundbreaking initiative, all cold storage units in Patna, Bihar, will soon be powered by solar energy. With the aim of reducing electricity consumption and lowering electricity bills, the state government is planning to integrate solar panels into both existing and new cold storage facilities in 12 districts. The construction of solar panel-equipped cold storage units will extend even to remote areas from district headquarters. The government is set to allocate ₹28 crores for these projects.
Affordable Cold Storage for Farmers
In an effort to make cold storage facilities accessible to farmers at competitive rates, new cold storage units will be established in Madhubani, Nawada, Aurangabad, Banka, Saharsa, Jamui, Munger, Jehanabad, Lakhisarai, Sheikhpura, Arwal, and Shivhar. These regions currently lack cold storage facilities, and the initiative aims to provide affordable cold storage options for farmers.
Two Categories of Cold Storage Construction
The cold storage units in the 12 districts of Bihar will be constructed in two categories: Type-1 and Type-2. Type-1 cold storage will have a capacity of 5,000 tons, while Type-2 will have a capacity of 2,000 tons. Type-1 is designed for storing a single type of seasonal crop, whereas Type-2 is designed to secure various products year-round.
Government Subsidies for Farmers
Understanding the challenges faced by farmers, the Bihar government is offering subsidies of up to 35% for the construction of cold storage units (Type-2). Farmers looking to protect their crops from spoilage by building cold storage units can receive a subsidy of 35% of the unit cost, which amounts to ₹3,500 out of the total ₹10,000 unit cost. This subsidy will be provided through the Bihar Agriculture Department and the Horticulture Directorate.
Selection Based on Applications
According to sources, a simultaneous 50% grant will be available for both cold storage and solar panels. Selection for cold storage construction will be based on submitted applications. The solar panels, integrated with cool chambers, will safeguard products in remote rural areas, preventing wastage of farmers’ crops and other produce.
