What is the role of cold chain infrastructure within SAMPADA?

• A. It supports storage and transport of perishable products.
• B. It is only for export shipments.
• C. It is primarily used for non-perishable goods.
• D. It is optional.

Answer: (A)

Cold chain infrastructure in SAMPADA provides a temperature-controlled pathway for perishables from harvest or processing through storage and transport to markets. By maintaining the right conditions, it preserves quality, safety, and shelf life, reducing spoilage and enabling consistent supply. In SAMPADA, this includes cold storages, refrigerated transport, and integrated cold facilities at processing and pack houses, all aimed at enabling value addition and smooth linkages from farmers to both domestic and export markets. It isn’t limited to exports, nor used only for non-perishable goods, and it isn’t optional—the cold chain is a core enabler of the scheme’s overall goals.