Union Minister launches smart warehousing system of CWC

Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi on Thursday launched the smart warehousing system of state-owned Central Warehousing Corporations (CWC) that uses modern technologies like AI to help monitor inventory and real-time operations in 216 grain warehouses through integrated dashboards.

Foodgrains meant for distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS) are stored in CWC and FCI depots. The smart warehousing system is being introduced to ensure transparency and curb foodgrains diversion.

After the launch, Joshi said, “It is our responsibility to keep the foodgrains safe and secure”, and use of technologies is helping strengthen the PDS. Smart warehousing is not only a technology initiative, but it is also a food security initiative, he said.

“Under smart warehousing system, 216 CWC warehouses are equipped with a surveillance system to ensure foodgrains are stored in a scientific manner, not susceptible to proliferation,” Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra said.

Very shortly, FCI will follow suit. About 150 FCI warehouses will be under the smart warehousing system by October, he said.