Context: 

Recently, The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, with the support of NABARD, introduced a solar dehydration technique to boost Farmers' Income and Reduce Post-Harvest Losses.

More on the News

• IIT Kanpur has collaborated with the Department of Food Processing at CSJMU University to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality protocols for solar dehydration.
• This technology allows farmers to dry fruits and vegetables using solar energy and offers a cost-effective solution to fluctuating market prices.
• The technique was recently demonstrated to nearly 30 farmers, including those from Hariya Nature Farming Producer Co., a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) in Shivrajpur nurtured by Shramik Bharti, and the Lavkush FPO formed under the Namami Gange project in Kalyanpur block.

The Solar Dehydration Technology

• Direct solar dehydration is the conventional procedure of dehydrating agricultural and food products. 
• In this solar drying technique, a transparent cover is used to reduce heat losses and protect the food material from dust and rain.
• It offers a sustainable alternative that reduces reliance on expensive, non-renewable energy sources.

Significance

• This technology enables farmers to store produce for longer periods, allowing them to sell their goods at more favourable prices during peak demand, thereby increasing profitability.
• It works as an efficient and sustainable method to reduce agricultural waste.
• To empower farmers through technological innovations, ensuring better financial stability, and expanding market access.
• This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable practices into Indian agriculture.
• By offering a cost-effective preservation method, it helps tackle issues like price volatility and food waste while promoting renewable energy solutions in farming.