Cargill has recently opened its first corn silo in the country in Davangere, Karnataka, making inroads into bulk agricultural storage in India. Built with an investment of US$ 10 million (approximately Rs 70 crore) and a storage capacity of 60,000 tons, the silo is situated next to Cargill’s corn milling plant in Davangere. According to the company, this allows Indian and global food companies access to high-quality, raw material stored at the right temperature, translating to superior product quality for their food products. The silo will also provide local farmers with increased market access as Cargill expands its procurement of corn locally.
The corn silo was inaugurated by GM Siddheshwra, an honorable member of Parliament, Davangere, Karnataka and Ramappa, honorable member of Legislative Assembly, Harihara, Karnataka along with Simon George, president, Cargill India.
Speaking at the occasion Siddheshwara said, “Major population of the local Davangere community is engaged in corn farming. With this initiative, I am happy that local farmers will get more opportunities to sell their produce, making them more profitable in the long run.”
Ramappa also inaugurated a local community initiative where Cargill has constructed a washroom in a school in Bhanuvalli village. He said, “Helping local communities is the joint responsibility of the industry as well as the government. It is very encouraging to see Cargill come forward with public utility initiatives for the development of Davangere.”
“As we continue to collaborate with Indian manufacturers to expand our footprint in starch and sweetener business, this silo is an important step towards ensuring supply of top-quality corn to the plant,” said George. “We will continue to innovate for Indian and international customers and help Indian farmers align better with the market. This silo expands Cargill’s supply chain capabilities in India and the stringent food safety standards followed here will prevent contamination of corn during storage.”
