In a land of plentiful food and resources, it is a tragic irony that many still go hungry. Food wastage has been a long-standing issue, not just in India but across the globe. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, one-third of all food produced in the world is wasted, amounting to a staggering 1.3 billion tonnes. In India alone, around 40,000 tonnes of food is wasted every day. However, amidst this grim reality, there is a glimmer of hope – the surplus grains produced in our country could be utilized to generate income and uplift millions of lives.
Recent data released by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has revealed that there is an annual surplus of 165 lakh tonnes of grains in the country. This excess food production could be a game-changer in addressing the issue of food wastage. The FCI is responsible for procuring and distributing food grains across the country, with a current storage capacity of 775.5 lakh tonnes. However, with the surplus grains, the storage capacity could be increased, and the excess food could be put to better use.
There are various ways in which this surplus food could be utilized to benefit the people and the economy. The first and most obvious solution is to distribute the excess grains among the economically weaker sections of society. The surplus could be used to feed the millions of hungry mouths in our country. This would also lead to a decrease in food insecurity and malnutrition, which are still prevalent issues in India.
Additionally, the government could also use the excess grains for its various welfare schemes like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDM). These schemes strive to provide food security to the underprivileged and children in schools. With the surplus grains, the government could increase the scope and reach of these schemes, ensuring that no one goes hungry.
Furthermore, the surplus grains could also be used to create employment opportunities and generate income. The excess food could be processed and packaged, opening up new avenues for the food industry. This would not only generate employment but also boost the economy. Moreover, the surplus grains could be exported to other countries, generating foreign exchange and increasing our global presence.
Apart from these, the government could also consider utilizing the surplus grains for biofuels. In recent years, there has been a push towards renewable energy sources, and biofuels have emerged as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. With the excess grains, the production of biofuels could be increased, reducing our dependence on non-renewable energy sources and contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.
Furthermore, the government could use the surplus grains to reduce farmer distress. The agriculture sector in India has been facing numerous challenges, including farmers’ distress and indebtedness. With the excess grains, the government could buy the produce directly from the farmers at fair prices, ensuring they get their due. This would go a long way in addressing the issue of farmer suicides and improving their standard of living.
In addition to the government, there is also a crucial role to be played by individuals and NGOs in utilizing the surplus grains effectively. NGOs could organize food drives and distribute food to the less fortunate, while individuals could also contribute by donating excess food to food banks and shelters. This would not only reduce food wastage but also help those in need.
In conclusion, the news of 165 lakh tonnes of surplus grains in our country is a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak scenario. It is now upon us and the government to channelize this excess food production for the greater good. The surplus grains could be used to feed the hungry, boost the economy, reduce farmer distress, and contribute towards a sustainable and equitable society. Let us all come together and make this a reality, for a brighter and better tomorrow.
