Abstract

This study examined storage infrastructure by analyzing the status of state-wise storage capacities and applying a market development index (MDI) to assess distribution relative to agricultural NVA share, output, and agricultural households in India. Findings showed that the West Zone, led by Madhya Pradesh, observed the highest storage capacity growth through FCI and state agencies, while Punjab and Rajasthan declined. Cold storage capacity grew by 15.88 per cent (2015–2022). The MDI revealed stark regional disparities, with FCI and state agency’s storage capacities concentrated in Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, while cold storage capacity remained limited to a few states. The Northeastern region remained underserved. These disparities emphasize the need for targeted investments, balanced policies, and improved infrastructure to ensure equitable access to storage across India.

Keywords: Storage capacity, market development index, regional disparities.
JEL Codes: O13, O18, P25, Q16.

Description

Indian Journal of Economics and Development
Volume 21 No. 1, March 2025, 000-000

https://doi.org/10.35716/IJED-24472

Impact Factor: 0.3 (Web of Science)
NAAS Score: 6.30 (2025)
Indexed in Scopus (SJR = 0.13)
Resurchify Impact Score: 0.23
UGC Approved (UGC Care List Group II)
Index Copernicus (ICV 2023: 105.09)