Food supply chain post-COVID: More reforms needed

2nd July

In the last few months, since India announced lockdown, to stop COVID-19 virus from spreading, an immediate impact was felt on the food supply chain which completely disrupted. The disruption forced the government to come out with major reforms like allowing farmers to sell their produce outside the market yard to fetch better returns. Essential Commodities Act relaxed for 7 commodities and the use of an electronic market platform for farmers to see that they receive a better price.
 

To deliberate on these issues, Business Standard recently held a webinar about the impact of COVID-19 on Food Supply Chain in association with the Indian Merchants Chamber. Speakers emphasised on more reforms needed to smoothen the chain.
 

Atul Chaturvedi, Executive Chairman, Renuka Sugars Ltd & President, SEA talked about making India self-reliant on the edible oil front, the national oilseeds mission should be revived. He advised north India farmers to diversify part of the sowing from grains to oilseeds.
 

Rajendra Barwale, Chairman, Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company (MAHYCO), emphasised the need for conducive government policy which encourages innovation in the seed technology. The policy should honour and promote new technology and intellectual property rights.
 

Dr V. Shunmugam Ex-Head (Research and Index Administration), MCX India explained the challenges in doubling farmers income and suggested realise that goal. 
 

Amith Agrawal, Co-founder and ED, StarAgri Warehousing & Agribazar discussed measures for promoting electronic market. He suggested the need to set up small silos near farms to help farmers store goods to sell at the right price and also allow those providing electronic trading platforms with e-Nam.
 

G. Chandrashekhar, Economic Advisor, IMC and Director IMC ERTF discussed regulations for promoting electronic trading, a higher degree of automation by all in the food supply chain at a time when globally the government policies are tilting towards protecting local interests.