Question : Laboratories for Agri Export Supply Chain

(a) the details of the number of recognized laboratories within the country including Tamil Nadu for testing agri export supply chain;

(b) whether these are very few as per the present requirement, if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether laboratory testing requirements are crucial in the agri export supply chain;

(d) whether the Government is planning to set up some more laboratories within the country, if so, the details thereof along with the number of laboratories likely to set up in Tamil Nadu; and

(e) the details of the funds estimated for this and the time by which these are likely to be set up?

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

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(a) & (b): There are 185 laboratories with accreditation from National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) and Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) recognition across the country including Tamil Nadu for testing food safety parameters for export of identified agro products. Out of these, 24 laboratories are in the state of Tamil Nadu. Besides, there are 59 operational plant quarantine stations, including 5 in Tamil Nadu, across the country having the basic laboratory facilities for verification of agricultural commodities for export from quarantine angle only. These laboratories cater to our present export requirements in the country.

(c): Yes, Sir.

(d) & (e): The laboratories are set up by research institutions, agriculture universities and by the private sector. However, Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) provides financial assistance for up- gradation of existing laboratories and for ensuring in-house quality.

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