Belagavi: The Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has confirmed that the existing foodgrain storage capacity in Belagavi district remains insufficient, even as multiple infrastructure projects are underway across Karnataka to boost overall storage availability. The information was provided in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha to a question raised by MP Iranna Kadadi.
Storage Capacity: Belagavi Still Short
According to the Ministry, Belagavi district currently has the following storage capacities:
- FCI Food Storage Depot, Belagavi – 24,000 MT
- State Warehousing Corporation – 8,250 MT
- Private Warehousing Scheme, Belagavi – 25,000 MT
- Private Warehousing Scheme, Chikkodi – 27,562 MT
Despite these facilities, the Centre acknowledged that the available storage is not sufficient as per the prevailing storage gap assessment.
State-wide Expansion Underway
As of 1 November 2025, Karnataka has 10.44 LMT of covered storage capacity with FCI—comprising both owned and hired facilities. A 25,000 MT wheat silo in Bengaluru has been operational since 2008.
Six additional storage facilities are being constructed across the state under FCI’s Asset Monetisation Plan, including depots at Raichur, Bellary, Bommapur, Tavarekoppa, Kushalnagar and Maddur.
Upgradation of Belagavi Depot in Progress
FCI’s 24,000 MT Belagavi depot is currently undergoing upgradation.
The works include:
- Replacement of asbestos sheets with PPGI colour-coated sheets
- Painting of godowns and ancillary buildings
- Conversion of the remaining 25% bituminous internal road into Cement Concrete road, for which administrative approval has been granted
Roof sheet replacement in 11 out of 12 compartments is already complete. AU208_C6Y1mD
Procurement of Jowar & Millets
On procurement of Jowar and other millets under MSP, the Ministry reiterated that:
- MSP for coarse grains is uniform across the country
- Procurement is carried out by state agencies
- Central Pool induction happens only after Karnataka submits proposals and the Ministry approves them
Fortified Rice in PDS
The Centre also confirmed that fortified rice is already being supplied across Karnataka under PMGKAY and Other Welfare Schemes.
The Union Cabinet (Oct 2024) has approved continuation of fortified rice distribution as a fully funded Central Sector Scheme till December 2028.