Pre-cum-Mains GS Foundation Program for UPSC 2026 | Starting from 5th Dec. 2024 Click Here for more information
Source: This post on NIFTEM-K Unveils SARTHI has been created based on the article “NIFTEM-K Unveils SARTHI: Smart Reefer Transportation to Curb Post-Harvest Losses” published in Financial express on 19th October 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) launched SARTHI (Solar Assisted Reefer Transportation with Hybrid Controls and Intelligence) to address post-harvest losses in perishable food transportation.
About SARTHI (Solar Assisted Reefer Transportation with Hybrid Controls and Intelligence)
1. The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has launched SARTHI (Solar Assisted Reefer Transportation with Hybrid Controls and Intelligence).
2. It has been launched to address post-harvest losses in perishable food transportation.
3. SARTHI integrates advanced technology to revolutionize the handling and distribution of fruits and vegetables.
4. SARTHI employs IoT, sensors, and solar power to ensure real-time monitoring and control of transportation conditions.
5. Sensors measure essential parameters like temperature, humidity, ethylene, and CO2 levels, providing critical data for quality management through a mobile app. This innovation helps reduce spoilage and energy waste during transport.
6. The system features dual compartments, enabling different temperature settings for various produce types. Fruits are kept at 0-5°C, while vegetables are stored at 7-12°C.
7. Additionally, a compartment can maintain temperatures as low as -10°C, ensuring optimal conditions and extended shelf life, while minimizing moisture loss and chilling injuries.
8. SARTHI allows transporters to make informed decisions on the go through real-time data tracking. If spoilage is detected, the system can suggest rerouting to nearby markets, ensuring that produce reaches its destination faster and reducing food wastage.
9. SARTHI is equipped with a solar-powered air handling unit, ensuring uninterrupted temperature control even during transport halts.
10. This eco-friendly feature enhances the sustainability of the system, reducing energy consumption and lowering carbon footprints.
UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes
