How does SAMPADA aim to reduce wastage in the supply chain?

• A. By integrating post-harvest processing, cold chains, and timely market access.
• B. By increasing post-harvest losses to reduce inventory.
• C. By delaying processing until after sale.
• D. By reducing cold chain infrastructure.

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that reducing wastage comes from tying together what happens after harvest with storage and market access. When post-harvest processing is available, produce can be converted or preserved quickly instead of spoiling on the field. A robust cold chain keeps fruits, vegetables, and other perishables at the right temperatures during transport and storage, slowing spoilage. Timely market access ensures products reach buyers before they deteriorate or become unsellable. Put together, these elements mean produce stays usable and valuable from farm to consumer, cutting losses along the way.

That’s why integrating post-harvest processing, cold chains, and timely market access is the best answer. Other options would increase losses or waste: pushing losses up, delaying processing until after sale, or reducing cold chain capabilities would all lead to more spoilage rather than less.