Vol. 10, Special Issue 12 (2021)

Author(s):
Dr. Swetha Kodali, Dr. Kamalaja T, Dr. Neelarani R and Dr. Vijaya Lakshmi V

Abstract:
Storing and maintaining agricultural produce after harvesting without grain/seed infestation is challenging, particularly at the household level. Even if numerous insecticides and other chemicals are applied during storage, pest invasion is still a possibility. To combat insect attack when grains are being kept, a new technique is required that is not only cost-effective and protects seed quality, but also simple to use and reuse. In this scenario, a grain storage bag termed as Hermetic bag was investigated at the AICRP-WIA, PJTSAU Lab and then delivered to farm women in villages to keep their harvested pulses/ grains for duration of ten months. The study was aimed to know the insight of farm women concerning Hermetic Grain Storage Bag and also to test its efficacy at domestic level. Data were collected through semi structured questionnaire, key informants and direct observation. A total of 50 sample household heads were selected by simple random sampling techniques. Results revealed that the storing of pulses in hermetic bags for more than one year without insecticide was possible at home and also it was light in weight, comfortable to use and easy to store the grains.