2016 · Paper V · 10 marksFrequently asked

Write a short note on the following: (i) Post Harvest Technology (PHT) (ii) Oilseeds Production Programme (OPP)

In short

Post Harvest Technology covers storage, cold chains and processing that cut losses of 20-40% in perishables and add value, supported by PM Kisan SAMPADA and the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund. The Oilseeds Production Programme, rooted in the 1986 Technology Mission on Oilseeds, raised output through better varieties and price support.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
Post Harvest Technology (PHT) and the Oilseeds Production Programme (OPP) are crucial for enhancing India’s agricultural productivity, reducing import dependence, and improving farmer livelihoods, with special relevance to states like Andhra Pradesh where horticulture and oilseed cultivation are significant.
Institutional Framework and Support
•

Coordinated Schemes

The Technology Mission on Oilseeds (TMO) and ISOPOM have integrated research, input support, and price stabilization, supported by states including Andhra Pradesh.

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Infrastructure Funding

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana and Agriculture Infrastructure Fund1 finance cold storage, processing units, and post-harvest management facilities to reduce losses.

Implementation Challenges and Outcomes
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Losses and Acreage Decline

India faces 20-40% post-harvest losses in perishables due to inadequate infrastructure; oilseed acreage declines due to cheaper imports and better cereal returns, affecting states like Andhra Pradesh.

•

Technology and Market Support

CFTRI and KVKs promote PHT innovations; minimum support prices backed by NAFED procurement encourage production; national oilseed output reached a record of about 41 million tonnes in 2022-23.

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Adoption Barriers

Small and marginal farmers often lack access to advanced PHT and credit, limiting benefits; fragmented landholdings in Andhra Pradesh complicate mechanization and value addition.

Way Forward
•

Infrastructure and Credit

Accelerate cold storage and processing in horticulture clusters via PMKSY and AIF; expand Kisan Credit Cards and digital platforms like SATHI for better technology access.

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Crop Diversification and Partnerships

Promote oilseed cultivation with assured procurement under PM-AASHA2; foster public-private partnerships to scale post-harvest technologies and value addition.

Conclusion
PHT and OPP are pivotal for reducing losses, enhancing incomes, and achieving edible oil self-reliance, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat and SDG 2 goals.

This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.

Hand-drawn diagram: Evolution of oilseeds programmes. Evolution of oilseeds programmes. Flow: Technology Mission on Oilseeds 1986 → ISOPOM with state participation → NFSM-OS → NMEO-OP and NMEO-Oilseeds
Diagram: Evolution of oilseeds programmes

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Science, Technology & Innovation: policies, institutions, achievements20 questions

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