Quality Control

45
 (1) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for quality control lab along with
number of equipments as per capacity of the depot

In order to ensure Quality in all major transactions, processes leading to improved

customer satisfaction level, laboratories are required. Procurement of foodgrains are done in
agricultural produce Markets and quality assessment is generally made by the Technical
Assistant on the spot. Reference samples, samples relating to Disputes, samples for opinion,
samples of food grains purchased from rice mills and secondary sources, samples of imported
grain and samples of grain to be exported are analyzed in the laboratories set-up by the
Corporation. Laboratories at Zonal/Regional and Divisional Headquarters are suitable for
undertaking routine analysis of food grains handled by the corporation. Sample so drawn are
analyzed at QC lab for their physical and chemical specification as fixed by Govt. of India.
QC Laboratories:-

To ensure effective monitoring of Quality of foodgrains Food Corporation of India

(FCI) is having laboratories at the Headquarters, Zonal, and Regional and Divisional level.
Each of the FCI storage depots shall be equipped with quality control laboratory
for analysis of foodgrains. District and Depot level labs are headed by the
respective Manager(QC) under the overall supervision of AGM(QC) of the
concerned division.
Coding and decoding of samples-
Following procedure is followed where coding/decoding is done:-
1. The District/Regional Manager will nominate a Coding Officer not below the rank of
Manager. The coding Officer shall be other than the Officer Incharge of the
Laboratory.
2. All the samples received by the Coding officer shall be entered into a register and each
sample given a code number.
3. After giving the code number and checking the seal, the coding Officer shall open one
of the two samples received for analysis. The sample slip from the opened sample
shall be removed and retained by the Coding Officer. The sample, opened for analysis
shall be passed on to the laboratory with no other marking except the code number
and the class of the stock in which it was purchased.
4. The laboratory shall prepare the analysis report giving only the code number.

Preservation / Disposal of samples:-

1. The samples received in the Divisional /Regional laboratory for analysis shall be
retained and preserved in glass jars or polythene bags for future reference and for
checking the quality of each consignment in the event of complaint from recipients.
The glass jar/bags be suitably numbered, labelled and registers relating to these be
maintained segment wise for reference. The samples shall be suitably fumigated to
preserve the condition of the grain, as and when required.
2. Samples received in the Divisional and Regional laboratories shall be disposed off only
after their retention period. Regarding samples pertaining to purchase operations from
rice mills and custom mills, out of two samples received in the laboratory, one sample
shall be opened and analyzed for the purpose of analysis and the second sealed
sample shall be preserved for a period of three months and disposed of provided no
complaint is received from the recipients in respect of this lot. The samples for which
any complaints are received shall be kept till finalization of the complaint.
3. The grain in the sample when no longer required in the laboratory shall be bagged
according to variety / condition and transported to the nearest Corporation Depots.

46
 This grain shall be weighed on receipt at the depot and taken on the ledger and
issued/disposed in accordance with disposal instructions.
4. Samples of Mandi purchase operations will also be disposed of after analysis, in the
normal manner.
5. Though sampled grain may be disposed of after analysis, sample slips will be retained
and destroyed only with orders from competent authority.

Instruments required for sampling & analysis: [IS 14818: 2000]

A. Instruments required for Sampling of cereals/ pulses/ milled products:
1. Instruments for sampling from static bulk, bins & rigid containers: There are various
types of instruments for sampling from static bulk, bins and rigid containers. For
details, please refer IS 14818: 2000.
2. Instruments for sampling from stacks and bags including bulk bags: These include:
a. Dynamic sack spears
b. Walking stick type (open handle or with compartment)
c. Conical samplers
d. Gravity spears
e. Screw augers

(For details, please refer IS 14818: 2000)

3. Sampling with ‘Parkhi’: [IS 2816: 1964 (R 1994)] In FCI, ‘Parkhi’ is commonly used
for sampling. Parkhi shall be inserted in the bag in a diagonal position and the
sample is collected by gentle turning and sample are taken out in a plate.
B. Instruments for division of samples: There are various types of instruments for
division of samples. For details, please refer IS 14818: 2000.
i. Coning and Quartering /Quartering iron
ii. Conical dividers (Boerner type)
iii. Multiple slot (Riffle or blade type)
iv. Centrifugal (Rotary divider)

In FCI, most commonly used sample divider is conical divider (Boerner type) and it
should be made available in all QC laboratories.
Conical Sample divider (Boerner type): [IS 4940: 1968]
Conical divider (Boerner type) is the instrument to divide the sample into two equal
half. The divider is calibrated to provide accuracy of 1 % between pans on a 1000 gm
sample. The grain is poured into the hopper and then released down in to the cone
which is directly under the center of the opening. Around the base of the cone are 38
openings or pockets. The grain falling down the sides of the cone is cut into 38
separate streams, rejoining into two streams, which empties into the two pans. Two
equal sub-samples are separated in the bottom receptacles. Sample from one
receptacle is used for duplicate sample. Pour the content of the second receptacle into
the hopper again. Repeat procedures as many times as necessary to obtain the
required weight of laboratory sample.
C. Instruments for analysis of samples:
i. Physical balance: sensitivity should be minimum 5 mg.
ii. Sieves: The following four IS sieves of round holes shall be used:
a. Top 4.00 mm.
b. Second from top 3.35 mm
c. Third from top 1.70 mm.
d. Fourth from top 1.00 mm.
e. A solid bottom pan at the bottom.

47
 iii. Enameled plates: Flat type, 30 cm in diameter with raised rims.
iv. Small scoop set: The scoop should be with handle, of mild steel and may be in
any of the following sizes

Length (mm) Width (mm) Height (mm)

105 100 25
75 65 25
25 20 25
v. Forceps: of about 10 cm in length
vi. Magnifying glass: With a handle of 7.5 cm length and having magnifications
of 10X.
vii. Dehusk test kit: It consists of the following:
a. Methylene blue
b. HCl
c. Methanil yellow
d. Distilled water
e. Petri dish
f. Forceps
g. Measuring test tube/measuring cylinder

viii. Mixed Indicator Method (MIM): chemical and reagent required

a) Glassware
1. Volumetric flask amber coloured 02 no. of 200 ml each
2. Graduated measuring cylinder (100ml)
3. Beaker
4. test tube with stopper (5 no. of 25 ml)
5. glass stirrer
6. measuring pippete (2ml)
b) Apparatus
1. Balance with 0.01 gram accuracy
2. Test tube track
c) Chemical reagents
1. Methyl red (AR Grade)
2. Bromothymol Blue (AR Grade)
3. Ethyl Alcohol(Absolute Grade)
4. Distilled water
ix. Moisture meter: A suitable moisture meter shall be used. In comparison with
basic reference method, the moisture meter under use shall have a maximum
sensitivity of ± 0.2 percent.
x. Grain Vernier: For measurement of length and thickness of grains. It helps in
determination of Grade A (Paddy /Rice).

D. Specifications for Sample bag:

a. The bags shall be made with unbleached coarse long cotton cloth (IS-187:1978
b. Dimension: 30 cm × 25 cm (To hold 2 Kgs of sample).
c. The wrap thread shall run parallel to the length of bags.
d. At the side of bag, the raw edge shall be sewn with lock stitches through two
layers of cloth. The number of stitches per 10 cm shall be 34 to 36.

48
 e. At the mouth, the raw edge shall be turned to a depth of 5 mm and then to a
depth of 8 mm and the three layers thus formed shall be sewn with lock stitches.
The number of stitches per 10 cm shall be 42 to 44.
f. The cotton thread used for sewing shall be of adequate strength.

E. Specifications for Polythene Sample bag for moisture sample:

a. The material for the manufacture of sample bag shall be polyethylene tubular
film conforming to the grade 001 of IS 2508-1984.
b. The thickness of the polythene film to be used for the manufacture of sample
bag shall be between 0.075 mm and 0.100 mm (300 to 400 gauge).
c. Dimension: 150 mm × 100 mm
d. The bag shall remain open at one end and bottom shall be effectively heat
sealed so as to withstand the pressure exerted by the weight of the sample
when it is filled completely.

F. Labelling of sample (Sample slip): The sample slip should contain particulars like
Name of the Commodity & Variety, Crop Year, Lot / Contract Number/supplier name,
Number of bags/ Quantity of lot from which sample taken, Date & Place of sampling,
Stack/Wagon/Truck number etc. as well as Name, designation & signature of the
person who sampled along with name designation & signature of the witness
(technical person), if required so.

G. List of equipments required to be available in a depot.

No. of Equipments Required

Sr.
Name of the Equipment Up to Above 10,000 MT
No.
10,000 MT up to 25,000 MT
1 Parkhi 4 8
2 Bag Trier 2 4
3 Enamel Plate 4 8
4 Measuring Cylinder 4 8
5 Dial Thermometers 1 1
6 Gas Masks 10 20
7 Foot Sprayers 1 2
8 Power Sprayers 1 2
9 Bird Scarers 1 2
10 Air Gun 1 2
11 Rat Cages 12 24
12 Grain Cleaners 1 2
13 Sample Divider 1 2
14 Sieve Set 1 2
15 Magnifying Glass 2 4
16 Grain Dial Caliper 1 2
17 Scoop Set 4 8
18 Counter Scale (Cap. 1 Kg 1 2
Portable Balance with
19 2 4
Weight Box
20 Digital Balance 1 1
21 Conical Flask 5 10
22 Pipette 5 10
23 Test Tube with stopper 10 20
24 Phosphine gas detector 1 1

49
 Remarks: For every additional 25000 MTs storage capacity, equipments @ 0.5
times should be enhanced proportionally.
In addition to the above equipments, following equipment shall also be
available in depot
1. Brass seal: Each quality control staff posted in the depot shall have brass seal
with separate seal number.

2. Moisture meter: The moisture meter shall be available as under:

S. Capacity of operational Procuring Consuming

No. depot Region Region
1 Up to 10,000 MTs 2 1
2 Above 10,000 MTs up to 3 2
25,000 MTs
R 3 District lab 2 1
e 4 Regional Lab 2 1
f 5 Zonal Lab 1 1
er Hqrs letter no QC.19/FCI- Lab/DMM/2016 dated 25/09/2017.
3. Fumigation cover:
i. 12 covers per 10,000 MTs for the godowns capacity below 50,000 which are
not located in the city/residential areas.
ii. 14 covers per10,000 MTs for the godowns capacity below 50,000 which are
located in the city/residential areas.
iii. 14 covers per 10,000 MTs for all godowns of capacity 50,000 MTs and above
irrespective of the location of the godowns.
H. Labelling of sample (Sample slip): The sample slip should contain particulars like
Name of the Commodity & Variety, Crop Year, Lot / Contract Number/supplier name,
Number of bags/ Quantity of lot from which sample taken, Date & Place of sampling,
Stack/Wagon/Truck number etc. as well as Name, designation & signature of the
person who sampled along with name designation & signature of the witness
(technical person), if required so.

Remarks: For every 25,000 MTs additional storage capacities, equipments should
be enhanced as per accordingly.
List of Equipments In Divisional Office / Regional Office /Zonal Office
District Lab Regional Lab Zonal Lab
No. No.
No. of No. of
No. of No. of of of
Equipme Equipme
S Equipme Equipme Equipme Equipme
nts nts
r Name of the nts nts nts nts
Required Required
N Equipment Required Required Require Require
In In
o In In d In d In
Consumi Consumi
Procuring Procuring Consumi Procurin
ng ng
Regions Regions ng g
Regions Regions
Regions Regions
1 Moisture Meter 2 2 2 2 1 1
2 Hot Air Oven 1 1 1 1 1 1
3 Sample Divider 2 1 2 1 1 1
Enamel Plates
4 20 10 20 10 10 10
Round 30cm
Sample Scoops
5 10 5 10 5
sets 10 5
50
 Counter Scale -
6 Cap. 1 Kg with 1 1 1 1 1 1
weight Box
Potable Balance
7 3 1 2 1
with weight Box 2 1
Physical Balance
8 1 1 1 1
5 mg sensitivity 1 1
Digital Balance
9 1 1 1 1 1 1
with Accessories
Hectoliter Weight
1
Apparatus 1 1 1 1 1 1
0
(IS:4335.156)
1
8 4 6 3
1 Parkhi 4 2
1
2 1 1 1
2 Sampler/Bag 1 1
1
5 2 5 2
3 Magnifying Glass 2 2
1 Hot Plates or
1 1 1 1
4 Electric Stove 1 1
1 Degchi with
1 1 1 1
5 Cover 1 1
Polythene
Sample Bags Size -
1 (i) 4.5"x7"x300
200 100 100 100
6 gauge 100 100
(ii) 6"x8.5"x300
Gauge
1 Sample Slips
4 2 2 1
7 (Book) 2 1
1 Cloth Sample 100 100
200 100 100
8 Bags 100
1
2 1 2 1
9 Sieve Set 2 1
2
Conical Flask 10 5 10 5
0 10 5
2
Pipette 10 5 10 5
1 10 5
2 Measuring
10 5 10 5
2 cylinder 10 5
2 Dial
1 1 1 1
3 Thermometer 1 1
2
Rat Cage 2 2 2 2
4 2 2
2 Grain Dial
4 2 2 1
5 Calipers 2 1
2 Test Tube with
20 10 20 10 20 10
6 stopper
2
10 5 10 5 10 5
7 Measuring Flask
2
1 1 1 1
8 Desiccator 1 1
2
1 1 1 1
9 Grinder Stone 1 1

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 3 Dry & wet
1 1 1 1 1 1
0 Thermometer
Analysis kit (equipments) required at procurement centres (Moisture meters, Parkhi,
Enamel Plates, Potable Balance with weight Box, Sample Scoops sets Sample Slips (Book),
Cloth/polyphone Sample Bags, brass seal, magnifying glass etc.) should be made available
in accordance with the number of procurement centres.

Respective heads at RO/ZO will ensure availability of adequate equipments at the QC

laboratories under their control. In exigencies, DM may also purchase minor QC equipments
to make available required equipments at QC laboratories under their control, with prior
approval of GM(R).

ED(Zone)/ GM(R) may exercise their DOP and ensure availability of QC requirements in
all the DO/RO/ZO laboratories.

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 (2) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Prophylactic and Curative
Treatment of Stock

Stored foodgrains are attacked by various kind of insect pests. The insect pests
infest stored grains to fulfil their food and shelter requirements resulting in qualitative
as well as quantitative losses of stored foodgrains. The tropical climate of India is highly
favorable for continuous occurrence of storage insect pests
FCI is nodal agency for procurement, storage and distribution of food grains and lakhs of
metric ton of foodgrains is procured, stored and distributed through NFSA/OWS. To store
such huge quantities of foodgrains, proper storage protocols should be followed so as to
maintain the quality and quantity of foodgrains. FCI issues instructions for preventive and
curative measures to be followed for the stored grain pest management. These operations
are performed by Dusting Operators/Ancillary Labourers under the supervision of Technical
Assistants/Manager (QC) of concerned Depot and monitoring of the same shall be done by
AGM (QC) of Divisional Office. Overall monitoring should be ensured at RO level as well.
Sources of Infestation: Infestation can come from a variety of sources like-
i. Field infestation (hidden infestation); e.g. pulse beetles and paddy moths infest crops
in the field itself by laying eggs on the grains to be harvested;
ii. Cracks and crevices: insects remaining in cracks and crevices from old stock infest
fresh incoming stock (cross-infestation);
iii. Leftover /spilled seed grains under the stacks;
iv. Old Gunny bags;
v. Uncleaned Truck /platform,/ trollies and bullock carts;
vi. Entry of insects from neighbouring stores/breeding grounds;
vii. Old infested stores;
viii. Un-cleaned processing plants etc.
ix. Receipt of Inspected stocks through rail/ Road

1. Good storage practices to avoid insect pests activities:

The most effective way to manage stored grain pests is to avoid them. Important
storage practices to avoid attack of insect pests during storage in a Depot include the
following:
 Good hygiene at storage depot is the most important in maintaining grain
quality.
 Individual sheds should be kept clean by sweeping the floor, removing
cobwebs, dust and collecting spilled grains in Palla bags on daily basis.
 Alleyways & Gangways should always be kept free for adequate aeration.
 Unserviceable articles and old gunnies be shifted to isolation sheds once found
redundant.
 Godowns should be properly cleaned before storage of new Stocks. All cracks,
crevices and holes in the floors, walls and ceilings should be properly sealed.
 Godown/Shed should be water/ seepage proof.
 Walls, crevices and wooden pallets should be sprayed with an insecticide before
re-use.
 Proper dunnage materials like wooden /plastic crates or other suitable material must
be used.

53
 Food grains should be kept in stores that are rat proof. All rat burrows should be
closed with a mixture of broken glass pieces and mud and then plastered with
mud/cement.
 Trucks or trollies used for transportation of food grains should be free from insect
infestation.
 Proper stacking of bags helps in grain protection from attack of insect pest.
 Inspect the stored grain once in a fortnight for signs of insect infestation like adult
insect, larvae, grubs, eggs, pupa/ pupal cases, faecal materials, webbings, frass
and holes on the grain. Under good conditions, the duration of the development
cycle from egg to adult is 18 - 25 days for beetles and 28 - 35 days for moths. In
unfavorable conditions, this period may be extended to several months.
 Aeration of stored food grains dissipate heat given out by respiratory activity of the
grains. It also changes the ecology and disturbs insect growth and development
and insect activity is suppressed. During bright sunny days and clear weather, all
the gates of the godowns should be kept open.
 Insect activity and fertility are also affected by the change in light. Moths are most
active at dawn and at dusk. Inspections to check and control flying insects are best
made at these times. Artificial light can help to reduce the movement and fertility of
moths.
 Light traps can also help in early detection of insect pest attack/ population.

2. Factors Affecting Insect Infestation in Stored Food grains: Major factors

affecting population growth of most insect species are temperature, relative humidity
and moisture content of the food grains. Several other factors such as source of
insects, aeration, condition of the food grain, presence of other organisms /insect
pests and ‘efforts to keep the food grain pest free’ also decide occurrence and
development of insect population in stored food grains. The nutritive content and
certain physical properties of food grains will also determine the vulnerability of such
materials to attack. High moisture content (16 percent or more) renders food grains
soft and susceptible to attack. The suitable temperature & relative humidity for some
common storage grain pests are as under –

Species Minimum for growth for Optimum

increase to epidemic numbers range for
increase

Temp, °C Relative Humidity Temp, °C

%
Sitophilus spp. 15 50 26-30
Rhizopertha 23 30 32-35
dominica
Trogoderma 24 * 33-37
granarium
Sitotrogacerealella 16 30 26-30
Tribolium spp. 21 * 30-33
Cryptolestes spp. 21 50 30-33
Oryzaephilus spp. 21 10 31-34
* Species breeds rapidly even in driest conditions.

54
 The optimum conditions of temperature and relative humidity (RH) for the rapid
growth and multiplication of stored grain insect pests range from 25 to 35 °C and 60
to 65% respectively. Insect infestations sometimes cause excessive heating of grain.
When the insect population reaches a certain density, their metabolic activities release
more heat than can be dissipated. In localized areas where the insect population is
extremely dense, the temperature may reach 45°C. Associated micro-organisms,
mainly fungi, may raise this to nearly 75 °C causing extensive spoilage and
occasionally, spontaneous combustion.

3. A. Prophylactic treatment at storage depots in FCI:

Prophylactic treatment is given on the peripheral surface of the bagged grain as

well as on the inner four walls & floor of the storage structure to control
surface/crawling infestation and cross infestation of stored grain pests from one
place to another.
 Chemicals:-

Currently, two chemicals i.e. Malathion 50% EC and Deltamethrin 2.5% WP

are being used in FCI godowns as prophylactic treatment and sprays with these
two chemicals are done on surface of bags only. 80% of the stocks are to be
treated during the month are treated with Deltamethrin 2.5% WP and remaining
20% stock are to be treated with Malathion 50% EC. No chemical should be
sprayed on naked grains.
Name of the Diluti Dosages Periodicity
chemical on with
diluted
solution
Malathion* 1:100 3 Ltrs per 100 Once in 15 days (March to Nov)
50% EC m 2 Once in 21 days (Dec to Feb)
Deltamethrin 40 gms 3 Ltrs per 100 90 days
2.5% WP /L m 2 (As well as post fumigation
spray)
Remarks- (*) malathion is to be discontinued as per the Government directions by March, 20
 Brushing of bags before spraying: Before spraying Emulsion/Pyrethrum products,
bags shall be cleaned as this helps in the removal of collected dust, webs, cocoons,
eggs etc. that might be sticking to the bags. Insecticides used on cleaned bags are
relatively more effective and long lasting.

B. Curative treatment at storage depots in FCI:

Control of stored grain insect pests through curative treatment requires fumigation.
The stored grains to be fumigated must be properly sealed so that fumigants can reach
a lethal concentration and, once the required level is reached, the same is maintained
for a specified period for better results.
 Fumigation: Fumigation is a process of exposing the grain infested with insects to
the fumes of a chemical in all enclosed space at a lethal dose: This is a curative
method to control infestation in the grain and is resorted as soon as pest infestation
is noticed.
 Aluminium Phosphide is most widely used as fumigant. It is in the form of tablets
each weighing about 3 (three) grams and emanating 1(one) gram of Phosphine gas
during its disintegration. Its low molecular weight and low boiling point increase its
effectiveness in that it is able to rapidly diffuse and penetrate in the grain mass to
give the necessary lethal concentration. Phosphine has garlic like odour.

55
  The doses of ALP tablets currently used in FCI covered godowns (bag storage) is
9 Gms (3 Gms × 3 tablets) per MT of food grain. Usually 50% ALP tablets are
spread on the top of the stack while remaining 50% are kept on all sides of the
stack to ensure that phosphine gas liberated from ALP tablets is distributed
throughout the fumigation system and its concentration gets built up higher than the
entrapped air concentration to achieve the lethal doses to kill the entire living pest
population. Immediately after the spreading of ALP tablets, stack should be air tight
with polythene covers and sealed with mud /sand snakes/cello tap.

Sr. Storage type / Nature Dosages Remarks

No. of fumigation
/infestation
1 Covered godown 9 Gms /MT
2 CAP storage 9 Gms /MT + Exposure period 5 to 7
20% extra dose days
3 Shed fumigation 63 Gms/ 28 m3
4 Khapra beetle 9 Gms /MT +
infestation 50% extra dose

 The exposure period for ALP fumigation is 5 to 7 days. Exposure for a longer
duration will give a better result. Achievement and maintenance of concentration of
the fumigant for the required period throughout the system will help in getting cent
percent mortality of pest population.
 To achieve and maintain the concentration of the fumigant, the stacks under
fumigation must be made air tight by mud plastering or placement of ‘sand snakes’
(double row) or by sealing with cello tap to retain the phosphine liberated to the
maximum extent.
 Also fumigation covers (CLTF covers) under use must be completely free from
holes and should not be cut or torn. In case of any minor holes/cut, it should be
repaired before use. Complete air-tightness is the essence of success of
fumigation operation.
 After fumigation, the stacks should be cleaned/ brushed to remove the residual
powder of Aluminium hydroxide.
 After exposure period, the stocks should be aerated for some time before
issue/dispatch.
 A post fumigation spray should be given with Deltamethrin.

4. Precautions during spray of pesticides on stored foodgrains:

 Before spraying with pesticides, bags shall be properly cleaned as it helps in
removal of dust, webs, eggs of insects etc. which might be sticking to the bags.
Insecticides, if used on cleaned bags, are relatively more effective & long lasting.
 All spillages of food grain around stacks must be collected and should be bagged
after proper cleaning before spraying the stacks so that naked grains should not
be contaminated with pesticides.
 The operator should use the protective devices / clothing to avoid exposure of
insecticide into human body through mouth, skin & respiration. Protective
clothing / water proof clothes, dust mask, hand gloves, rubberized shoes and
safety goggles should be used by the operator during spraying of pesticides.

56
 Care should be taken to ensure that all screw threads or unions of spraying
machine are tight and free from leakage so that liquid does not seep over the
clothing of the operator.
 Diluted WP (wettable powders) like Deltamethrin, should be used immediately
after preparation and the sprayer must be shaken at intervals during the spraying to
ensure even distribution of the powder throughout the spray and to prevent
settling. If solution is prepared in small tank, it should be stirred with some
wooden rod so that pesticide should not settle in the bottom. The shaking of the
sprayer or manual stirring of tank may not be necessary if it is fitted with a constant
agitation device.
 When using hand sprayers, the nozzle should be held about 30 cm from the
surface to be sprayed and it should be moved at about 60 cm per second to give
the desired output. Successive bands of spray should overlap slightly. Additional
lengths of hose to hose and extension tube may be fitted to hand sprayers so
that the reach may be extended. Heavier dosages of spray should be applied to
cracks, crevices, holes and other places likely to harbour insects.
 Care should be taken to avoid hazards in the areas like electrical equipment, low
light areas and steep /slippery places. Water based sprays should not be applied
directly to electrical equipment as it may result in short circuit. The solvents in
some emulsion can damage rubber or plastic or stain boxes or packages.
 When spraying with a motorized power sprayer, care should be taken not to run
the engine faster than required speed for distributing the spray on surface. The
engine speed should be varied with the angle of the spray. High engine speed
produces excessive airflow, causing spray to bounce off surfaces and possibly
contaminate the operator when the spray is directly horizontal against wall.
 Proper care should be taken when climbing on stacks or ladders to treat high places
because the weight of sprayer on the back can upset balance.
 Motorized knapsack sprayers must be correctly maintained. Particular attention
should be paid to ensure that air filter and sparking plug are regularly cleaned
and that only clean petrol and oil mixed in correct proportion are used for the
engine. On completion of spraying, the petrol supply should be switched off and
the engine allowed running until the carburettor is empty. If this is not done,
carburettor may become clogged with oil. Spare plugs, nozzles, plug spanners
and other tools should be kept as per requirement.
 While spraying, a check should be made to ensure that all areas have been
treated and that correct amount of spray has been applied. Any surplus remaining in
the spray should be s p r a y e d on the walls. For wettable powder, little left out
solution with high concentration of powder may be discarded properly as pumping
it may clog the sprayer. The empty sprayer should be washed thoroughly with
clean water. Nozzles should be dismantled and cleaned properly. Nozzles should
not be poked with wire or pins. Spray tanks, hoses and lances should be drained
and dried. A check should be kept for rust, which could do blockage. All seals,
washers and springs should be periodically checked.
 Empty insecticides containers must be disposed of safely. Partly used containers
should be securely closed and all insecticide concentrates should be kept in lock
& key and away from foodstuff.
 A return visit should be made to confirm that the treatment was effective.

57
  Prepare spray solution from concentrated pesticides in deep bottomed vessels with
the help of long mixing handles. This is to protect the operator from the splashes of
the pesticides and to make it easy to stir it in standing position.
 Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after the operation.

5. Do’s and Don’ts for Safe use of pesticide:

Do’s Don’ts
During a. Purchase pesticides/ bio-pesticides a. Do not purchase pesticides
purchase only from registered pesticide from foot path or from un-
dealers having valid License. licenced person.
b. Check approved labels on the b. Do not purchase pesticides
containers/packets of pesticides without approved label on the
c. Check Batch No., Registration containers
Number, Date of Manufacture/ c. Never purchase expired or
Expiry on the labels near to expiry date pesticide.
d. Purchase pesticides well packed in d. Do not purchase pesticides
containers whose containers are
leaking/loose/ unsealed.
During a. Store the pesticides away from a. Never store pesticide in house
Storage house premises premises.
b. Keep pesticides in original b. Never transfer pesticides from
container original to another container.
c. Pesticides/weedicides must be c. Do not store insecticides with
stored separately. weedicides.
d. Where pesticides have been d. Pesticides should not be
stored, area should be marked exposed to direct sunlight or
with a warning sign rain water.
e. Storage place should be well
protected from direct sunlight
and rain
While Keep pesticides separate during a. Never carry/transport
Handling transportation. pesticides along with food/
 Bulk pesticides should be fodder/other eatable articles
carried carefully to the site of b. Never carry bulk pesticides on
application. head, shoulder or on the
back.
While Always use clean water. a. Do not use muddy or stagnant
Preparing a. Use protective clothing viz., hand water.
Spray gloves, face masks, cap, apron, b. Never prepare spray solution
Solution full trouser, etc. to cover whole without wearing protective
body, clothing
b. Always protect your nose, eyes, c. Do not allow the pesticide/its
ears, hands, etc. from spill of solution to fall on any body
spray solution. parts.
c. Spray shall always be alongside d. Spray shouldn’t be applied
wind current so that it may not opposite the wind current as it
return to the face / body of may reach to the face/ body of

58
 person spraying. person spraying
d. Read instructions on pesticide e. Never avoid reading
container label carefully before instructions on container’s label
use. for use
e. Prepare the solution as per f. Do not use overdoses as it may
requirement. result in higher pesticide
f. Avoid spilling of pesticides residue affecting health and
solutions while filling the spray environment.
tank g. Do not eat, drink, smoke or
g. Always use recommended dosage chew during whole operations
of pesticide. involving pesticides.
h. No activities should be carried out
which may affect your health
while spraying.
Selecti Select right kind of equipment. a. Do not use leaky or defective
on of a. Select right sized nozzles. equipments.
Equipment b. Use separate sprayers for b. Do not use defective/non-
insecticides and weedicides. recommended nozzles.
c. Do not blow/clean clogged
nozzles with mouth. Instead use
brush to clean the nozzle of
sprayer
d. Never use same sprayer for
both weedicides and
insecticides.
While a. Spray should be applied only with a. Never apply over-dose and high
Spraying recommended dose and dilution. concentrations other than
b. Spray operation should be recommended
conducted on cool and calm day. b. Do not spray on hot sunny day
c. Spray operation should be or strong windy conditions
conducted on sunny day in c. Do not spray just before rains
general. and immediately after the rains
d. Use recommended sprayer for d. Emulsifiable concentrate
each spray. formulations should not be used
e. Spray operation should be for spraying with battery
conducted in the wind direction. operated ULV sprayer.
f. After spray operations, sprayers e. Do not spray against wind
and buckets should be washed direction.
with clean water using f. Containers and buckets used for
detergent/soap. mixing pesticides should never
g. Avoid the entry of animals/ be used for domestic purpose
workers in the godown even after thorough washing.
immediately after spray. g. Never enter in the treated
godown immediately after spray
without wearing protective
clothing.
After a. Left over spray solutions should be a. Left over spray solution should
Spray disposed-off at safer place viz. not be drained in or near ponds

59
 Operation barren isolated area. or water lines etc.
b. The used/empty containers should b. Empty containers of pesticides
be accounted for and kept should not be re-used for
separately. storing other articles.
c. Wash hands and face with clean c. Never eat/drink before washing
water and soap before clothes and taking bath after
eating/drinking. each operation.
d. On observing poisoning symptoms d. Do not take the risk by not
give the first aid and show the showing the poisoning
patient to doctor along with the symptoms to doctor as it may
empty container. endanger the life of the patient.

6. Aeration- Regular aeration is required to maintain the health of stored foodgrains.

Aeration to the foodgrains shall be imparted on clear sunny days. Aeration of
godowns on all clear days during July-March is essential for controlling the activities
of Moths, Mites and Psoccids. All the ventilators provided in modem godowns shall
be kept open for facilitating aeration during this period. During April-June godowns
will be kept open as required for operations, inspections and pesticide treatments.

Further, in case the stock is stored in CAP, there is possibility of damages of

stocks due to condensation at the top and sometimes at the sides. Condensation will
continue to occur when daily variation in temperature is in excess of 10o C. In order
to reduce the damages due to condensation, aeration is taken as below:

i. MC less than 12 per cent –Once in a week in early cool hours only.
ii. MC 12 per cent to 14 per cent - Once in every three days in the early cool hours
only.
iii. MC above 14 per cent---continuous till M.C. is brought down to 14 per cent and
thereafter as at (ii) and (i) above

60
 (3) Standard operating procedure (SOP) for Rodent Management

Rodents have been obvious pests of foodgrains in storage. Rat not only consumes food
grains, but it contaminates them. Additionally, their habit of nibbling of bags leads to
collapsing of stacks. The gnawing tendency of rodents causes structural damage to buildings
and may even initiate fires when insulation from the electric wires is chewed. Hence, it is
very essential to follow an effective rodent management practices. Signs indicating the
presence of rodents are droppings and burrows including other signs such as gnawing, rat
hairs, urine spots and rat body odour.

1. Preventive measures: Maintenance of hygienic conditions and rat proofing of

godowns are the two most effective steps to avoid rat menace.

1.1. All the rat burrows inside the godown should be closed by filling them with broken
glass pieces and stone and then cemented at the mouth.

1.2. In order to eliminate breeding places rubbish/ trash/ refuse in and around the
godown premise must be collected, stored and disposed following proper solid waste
management practices.

1.3. Dumping/ storing of any items in the godown premise must be done with a ground
clearance of 1.5 feet and not directly on the ground.

1.4. All the holes and cracks, especially holes wider than ¾-inch and holes around pipes
and conduits in the exterior of the building must be sealed.

1.5. The height of the plinth of the godown must be 0.80 m above the road/
finished ground level and the same must be maintained even after laying new
roads. Protruded platform with iron railings should be provided to avoid entry of
rats. Permanent steps/ stairs must not be set up to reach the plinth/ platform,
instead temporary/ movable steps/ stairs must be used.

2. Fumigation: Fumigate the rat burrows in the godown premises with Aluminium
phosphide tablets at the rate of 2 tablets/ burrow followed by sealing with wet mud.

3. Trapping: Treadle type traps and cage trap must be set on the rat run close to the
wall, runways and burrows with some attractive food as bait.

3.1. Bait: During winter months, fried substances may be used, whereas during the
summer months, green vegetables and fruits may be used. Soaked rice as bait attracts more
rats.

3.2. Effective trapping: The trap must be kept open during the first 3 to 4 days so
that the rat can conveniently get in, consume the bait and escape; this enables the rats to
overcome bait shyness. Traps should not be laid at the same place continuously for more
than two weeks. Traps must be monitored and emptied/ removed, else other rats may avoid
traps in future. Traps must also be cleaned and washed frequently.

4. Poisonous baits: One part of Zinc phosphide with 49 parts of popped corn/ rice. It
may also be prepared in the form of pellets. 3 g of Zinc phosphate, 100 g of wheat flour, 5 g
of jaggery and 5 g of edible oil are required. The pellets must be prepared by mixing water
in wheat flour - Zinc phosphide mixture, followed by coating of oil and jaggery. These baits
are placed in burrows.

61
 5. Commercial bait: Ready to use bait (anti-coagulants), commercially available in the
market in the form of cakes/ cubes/ bars may also be used following manufacturer’s
instruction.

6. Pre-baiting: Initially baiting without poison must be done in order to avoid bait
shyness.

7. Disposal of rats: The purpose of trapping the rat would fail if the trapped rats are
released at a short distance away from Godown. The trapped rats can be killed by
submerging the trap in water. Dead rats should be buried immediately to avoid secondary
poisoning.

8. Glue pads: Ready to use Glue pads commercially available in the market may also be
used following manufacturer’s instruction.

9. Precautions: All chemicals used for control of pests are highly poisonous and
hazardous. They should be, therefore, stored in isolation sheds, away from food grains and
from the reach of untrained hands, under lock and key. Like all the fumigants, phosphine is
highly toxic to all forms of animals and human life. Although, multi-dose anticoagulants are
not very hazardous, it is desirable to take ordinary precautions as we do in case of all other
pesticides. While handling chemicals, gloves, face mask and safety goggles must be used.
Disposable gloves and mask must be disposed appropriately after use. Hands must be
washed with soap properly after use.

At the depots where rodent menace is high, adequate quantity of rodenticides should be
purchased by Depot Manager/ Manager (QC) under their DoP using contingency fund.

62
(4) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Inspection, Sampling and analysis of
Food grains:
Drawing a representative sample is an important and essential part of quality
assessment of foodgrains at various stages. If the sample obtained is not representative, no
amount of care in further analysis will establish true quality of grain. The sampling of food
grains as stipulated in Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is accepted as the national
standards and forms the base for sampling procedure to be followed in the operations of
FCI. For sampling of food grains, IS14818: 2000 and amendment thereof is followed and for
analysis of foodgrains, IS-4333 (Part-I): 1996 & IS4333 (Part-II): 2002 and amendment
thereof are followed

Quality of foodgrains is to be analyzed with respect to the specification/ refractions fixed

by Government of India. For this analysis, samples have to be homogeneous so as get
accurate result. All processes have to be carried out by technical assistants/
Manager (QC) of respective centres. As such, it is important that proper sampling
procedure as prescribed below is followed.

1. Sampling from Bags: [IS 14818: 2000]

Unless otherwise specified, increments shall be taken from different parts of the lot
(for example top, middle and bottom) by means of a sack / bag spear from the number of
bags specified in the table below:
Number of bags in the Number of bags to be sampled
consignment
Up to 10 Each bag
10 to 100 10, taken at random
More than 100 Square root (approx.) of total number

Example with consignment size of 580 bags-

 The square root of 580 = 24.166

 Number of groups (n) = 24
 Make 24 groups of 24 bags (Total bags = 576)
 Cross out one number, example number 7
 Sample the 7th bag from each group of 24 bags.
 The remaining 4 bags (580 minus 576) will form a separate group.
 Sample one bag out of remaining four random.
 So, sampling in case of 580 bags is done from 25 bags total.

2. Sampling from Rail or Road Wagons, Lorries, Barges or Ships: [IS 14818:
2000]
Unless otherwise specified, each laden wagon, lorry, barge or ship shall be sampled.
Increments shall be taken throughout the whole depth of lot. The grain should be sampled
using a grid system.
Tonnage Sampling points
Up to 15 tonnes 5
15 to 30 tonnes 8
30 to 500 tonnes 11
Above 500 tonnes Next whole number of square root of tonnage/2
63
 3. Sampling from Silos, Bins or Warehouses: [IS 14818: 2000]
Increment shall be taken throughout the whole depth of the lot. A suitable
instrument must be used to achieve the requirement. The grain should be sampled using a
grid system. Sufficient increments should be taken to satisfy the requirement. Take the
square root of tonnage (in static bulk). Divide by two and round up to the next whole
number. This is the minimum number of increments that is to be obtained.
Tonnage Square root Number of
increments
500 22.4 12
1000 31.6 16
2000 44.7 23
4000 63.2 32
6000 77.4 39
8000 89.4 45
10000 100.0 50

4. Sampling in Produce Market (Mandi): [IS 14818: 2017]

In view of large magnitude involved in the purchases to be made in produce markets, it
is of paramount importance that the pricing is correctly done in relation to the specifications
in force. The aim should be to sample and check maximum number of lots for purchase in
the market.
At the time of procurement of food grains in procurement centres, technical Assistant
shall ensure, offered lots of stocks is properly cleaned, dried and in sound marketable
condition. The TA shall draw the samples from each heap from multiple points so that
homogenous samples are drawn for analysis. The bulk sample shall be followed by
combining increments and mixing them thoroughly.
In view of large magnitude involved in the purchases to be made in produce markets,
the aim should be to sample and check maximum number of lots for purchase in the
market. The sampling of purchased stocks shall be done and samples shall be sent to FCI
divisional QC laboratory as under-
Number Number of lots to be drawn and sent to Remarks
of lots FCI DO lab
purchased
Up to 100 Four (4) samples with a minimum of one It may be ensured
sample from each grade or variety purchased that samples from
100 to 199 Seven (7) samples with a minimum of one different lots drawn on
sample from each grade or variety purchased the basis of heaps
200 to 399 Ten (10) samples with a minimum of two purchased in a ‘Mandi’
samples from each grade or variety purchased are not less than the
400 and Twelve (12) samples with a minimum of number indicated.
above three samples from each grade or variety
purchased

The samples which is to be sent to DO lab shall contain a sample slip having particulars
like Name of the Commodity & Variety, Crop year, Lot / Contract Number, Number of bags/
Quantity of lot from which sample taken, Supplier Name, Date & Place of sampling,
Stack/Wagon/Truck number etc. as well as Name, designation & signature of the person
who sampled along with name designation.

All collected/ received samples are to be analyzed at Divisional lab and results should be
communicated to field offices within 3 days by Manager (QC) lab of Divisional office.

64
Inspection norms
 The food grains stocks shall be accepted /purchased as per specifications, laid down
by the GOI. Periodical inspections of covered godowns as well as CAP units is carried
out as per the inspection norms issued by FCI HQrs vide circular no.1/2020 vide
file no.QC.7/2/SIR/2018 dated 07/02/2020.
 Since, the moisture is a very important quality parameter which affects shelf life and
quality of food grains, the officers /officials assigned with the mandatory inspections
should verify correct recording of moisture content of food grains. Therefore, it is
imperative to record correct moisture content at the time of receipt, during
storage/preservation and at the time of issuance of food grains by duly calibrated
moisture meter. This should be done as per the SOP for correct recording of
moisture content in depots /storage points issued by FCI HQ letter
No.QC.6(1)/Stg.Instructions/2021 dated 17.11.2021.
 In view of adverse weather conditions or unseasonal rains, adequate precautionary
measures are to be taken for proper maintenance and upkeep of the stocks which
will be inspected regularly at all levels i.e., fortnightly by TA, monthly by M(QC) and
quarterly by AGM(QC). Necessary measures have to be complied by all the field
functionaries as per the instructions issued by FCI vide HQ letter
No.QC.6(1)/Storage instructions/2021/ dated 16.04.2021.
 In order to have a proper check of procured rice stock, the representative of GM
(Region) (RO)/ Divisional Manager (DO) will draw samples from the 5% and 10% of
stack accepted by each TA in triplicate associating concerned TA/ Manager(QC) on
monthly and fortnightly basis respectively. Out of the three jointly sealed samples,
one sample shall be kept in depot for future reference. The period of retention of
sample in the depot should be three months. The stacks from which samples have
been drawn by District / Regional lab should not be moved till the receipt of analysis
results from the respective labs. District/Regional office should convey the results to
concerned centers/depots invariably within a week's time from the date of receipt of
sample in Lab. Inspection sampling and analysis procedure to be followed in
procurement of paddy and custom milled rice has been issued in detail by FCI HQrs
before start of every procurement season. The latest being HQ letter No.QC
2(1)/KMS/2021-22/Policy dated 29.09.2021.

Analysis and Quality management of Fortified rice

 To address the anaemia and micro-nutrient deficiency in the country, Government of
India approved centrally sponsored pilot scheme on “Fortification of Rice and its
distribution under Public Distribution System”. In view of this it is important to fix
minimum threshold parameters for quality standards of FRK. In this regard , a
detailed guidelines has been issued by DFPD vide letter dated 15.03.2022 and
circulated by FCI, Hqrs letter no. QC 34(2)/Fortification of Rice/2021/ Dated
23.03.2022
 In procuring region where the fortified rice is accepted, samples from a minimum of
10% of stocks accepted miller wise on monthly basis shall be referred to FSSAI
approved NABL accredited labs for testing of Fortificants in fortified rice as per the

65
 standards of FSSAI. Testing of samples should be completed within 45 days from the
date of acceptance of the stock from where the sample is drawn.
 Copy of analysis results shall be shared with the consignee depot/ Divisional offices
at the time of dispatch of fortified rice from procuring region to consuming regions.
 In this regard, a detailed guidelines has been issued by FCI, Hqrs vide letter no. QC
19/R&D/ Fortification of Rice/2019/Pt Dated 22.02.2022 should be followed
scrupulously.

Monitoring of foodgrains quality procured under DCP scheme

 Under DCP scheme, foodgrains (Wheat, paddy and Rice) are procured by the
respective state governments at Minumum Support Price from farmers of the state.
The state governments concerned is responsible for quantity and quality of
foodgrains procured under DCP mode.
 The General Manager (R) in consultation with State Government / its nodal agency
shall work out district wise inspection plan for every month. FCI and State
Government has to conduct 2% joint inspections of foodgrains procured in DCP
states as per the guidelines issued by FCI in detail vide HQ letter No.Q.C.
2(1)KMS/DCP operation/2016/ dated 24.05.2016.
 A joint team shall be constituted which consists of Quality control cell(DFPD)
representatives, nominated officer/officials of State Government and FCI to facilitate
inspection of DCP stock. Team shall inspect minimum 15% of total rice or wheat
stock procured per season (KMS & RMS respectively) as per the DFPD guidelines
dated 16.07.2021 and circulated by FCI vide HQ letter No.QC.7/26/ joint
inspection /D/P.C.2020 dated 27.07.2021 and amendment thereof.

Standard Operating Procedure for Analysis of Food grains:

1. Preparation of Test Sample: [IS 4333 (Part-I):1996]
 A “Composite Sample” of about 2500 gms shall be drawn complying IS 2814: 1978 &
IS 3714: 1978.
 The composite sample shall be reduced to about 500 grams by dividing on a sample
divider.
 In case sample divider is not available, coning and quartering method may be used
alternatively. Composite sample should be mixed thoroughly and should be spread on a
flat, non-obserbant smooth surface. Draw the grain into a conical heap flatten the top
of the heap in a circular layer of about 12 mm to 25 mm thickness. From this layer, 500
gms sample should be scooped out from centre, sides and different points taking care
that no foreign matter is left over from the portions from where grains have been
scooped out.

2. Visual Examination of Test Sample: [IS 4333 (Part-I):1996]

 Examine the test sample as a whole for its general condition, including odour and
infestation.
 Report whether sample is wholesome, clean, dry and in sound marketable condition.
 Examine the sample for any deleterious material hazardous to human health rendering
the grain inedible.

66
 3. Determination of Foreign Matter: [IS 4333 (Part-I):1996]
 Foreign matter is determined from the “Test Sample”.
 Mass of sample should be recorded first.
 Pour the complete test sample in top layer of sieve sets arranged in a manner so that
sieve with the largest perforation comes at the top and those with smaller perforation
are placed one below the other in order of their decreasing aperture size.
 Agitate the sample thoroughly to strain out the foreign matter at various levels. As a
result, other foodgrains and foreign matter like bolder piece of clay, chaff etc. would
remain on the first three sieves according to their sizes.
 The top most sieve would contain bold grains, big pieces of clay and other big sized
foreign matter while lower sieves would contain smaller, shrivelled & badly insect
infested grains and smaller foreign matter.
 Separate the sieves after straining and pick up all foreign matter by hand or forceps
from each of sieves and transfer the foreign matter collected from each sieve onto the

Commodity Test sample weight

(Approx.)
Rice & millets 250 grams
Other food grains 500 grams

bottom pan.
 Weigh the total foreign matter and calculate the percentage

3) Determination of Refractions other than Foreign Matter: [IS 4333 (Part-

I):1996]
 Mix the content of the four sieves freed from foreign matter and spread out evenly on
a flat smooth surface.
 From the spread, scoop out from centre, sides and different points exactly the
specified quantity for the analysis of grains under test as indicated below:

Commodity Scooped sample weight (Min)

Wheat 50 Gms
Paddy 50 Gms
Rice 20 Gms
Fortified Rice 50 Gms
Maize 50 Gms
Barley 50 Gms
Millets 20 Gms
Gram 50 Gms
Other pulses 25 Gms

Place the weighed quantity on an enamel plate. Then pick out the various items of
refractions by hand with the help of magnifying glass in the order-
Care should be taken that each item of refraction as specified in FAQ parameters
of foodgrains is accounted.
 Each separated item of refractions should be weighed on the physical balance and
percentage of individual refraction should be calculated separately on the quantity
taken for actual analysis as given in the table above.
 In rice, for the refractions (except foreign matter), analysis to be carried out in
duplicate and average should be taken.
67
 [In FCI, for field /lab/ joint analysis, result of single analysis of rice is
also valid & final for all purpose. (FCI Hqrs circular No QC / 2(1) / 2002
/Vol-I date 09.12.2002)]
4) Determination of Insect damaged (weevilled) grains: [IS 4333 (Part I):
1996]
 Bigger size grain: From sieved sample, measure 20 ml of the representative sample
with the help of a measuring cylinder. First count the total number of kernels in
measured sample. Then weevilled grain should be picked out and should be counted
separately. The insect damaged grain (weevilled grain) can be calculated as –

 Smaller size grain: For smaller size grains, there are two methods of calculating
Weevilled %age i.e. volumetric method & Gravimetric method (Weight method) and
either of them can be used. The methods used shall be declared while reporting the
result.

1) Volumetric method: From sieved sample, measure 20 ml of the representative

sample with the help of a measuring cylinder. Weevilled grain should be picked
out and volume of weevilled grain should be measured in same measuring
cylinder which was used for measuring representative sample.

2) Gravimetric method: From sieved sample, weigh 20 gm of the representative

sample in a chemical balance with least count of 0.1 mg. Weevilled grain should
be separated and weight of weevilled grain should be measured in same
chemical balance which was used for weighing the representative sample.
3) For calculation of weevilled grains in wheat, volumetric method is adopted upto
3.5% weevilled grains and then by count is adopted.
5) Determination of Moisture Content: [IS 4333 (Part 2): 2002]
 This method is applicable to most of the cereals food grains (except Maize),
milled grains etc. For international standards, the reference method is ISO-711
‘Cereals and cereals products-Determination of moisture content-Basic reference
method’. For Maize, a separate method is specified in ISO-6540.

 Principle: The sample is ground, after pre-conditioning, if required. A test

portion is dried at a temperature of 130°C ± 3°C, under condition which enables
a result to be obtained which is in agreement with that obtained by the basic
reference method (ISO 711).

Preparation of test sample:

 Products not requiring grinding
 Suitable for particle size < 1.7 mm (Not retained on 1.8 mm sieve)
 Products require grinding:
 Grinding without pre-conditioning: For products which are not likely to
undergo variations in moisture content in the course of grinding [In
general products with moisture content between 7% and 17% (15% in
oat, paddy & rice)].
 Grinding with pre-conditioning: For products which are likely to undergo
variations in moisture content in the course of grinding [In general
products with moisture content more than 17% or less than 7%] shall be
preconditioned so as to bring their moisture in between 7% to 17% (if
possible, in between 9% to 15%) before grinding.

68
 Procedure:
 Number of determinants: It is required to carry out two single determinants.
If the absolute difference between the two results is more than repeatability
limit, repeat the determinants until the results meet the requirement.
 Test portion: Rapidly weigh 5gms± 1 gm of sample to the nearest 0.001 gm (=
1mg) in the dish (previously dried and tared together with lid to the nearest
0.001 gm).
 Method of determination: Adjust the air-oven to a temperature of 130 ± 3°C.
The petri dishes containing about 2 gms. of the flour be put inside the oven and
remove their lids. The lids should also be kept separately inside the oven. Close
the air-oven and keep the samples exactly for 2 hours for drying, maintaining
the oven temperature at 130 ± 3°C. The oven should not be opened within the
two hours ( two hours-drying period begins when the oven temperature is
actually 130°C). Put on the lid over the petri dishes. While in the oven, transfer
all the petri dishes to dessicator and weigh soon after room temperature is
attained.
 Weighing: When the dish has cooled to laboratory temperature (generally 30
min to 45 min after it has been placed in desiccator), weigh it to nearest 0.001
gm (= 1mg).

Calculation and expression of results:

 For samples without pre-conditioning: (Paddy, Rice, Wheat, Pulses)
𝑀0 − 𝑀1
%𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 = × 100
𝑀1
(M0= Original sample mass in gm, M1= Sample mass after drying in gm)
 Precision: The difference between two determinants made on the same
sample should not exceed 0.1 gm (or 100 mg) per 100 gm of sample. If it
does so, the determinant should be repeated in duplicate. The mean of the
result of duplicate test, rounded to the nearest 0.05 gm (or 50 mg) of
moisture per 100 gm of sample, represents the moisture content of the
sample.

6. Determination of age of Milled raw rice

The age of milled rice stocks during acceptance of Custom Milled Rice for
central pool procurement is determined by Mixed Indicator Method in which
age of the rice is based on the resulting colour of the solution as detailed
below.
Color change As per standard Result
Green
Stocks freshly milled Accepted
Avacado Green
Yellow
Stocks not freshly
Yellow orange Rejected
milled
Orange
( Colour chart is enclosed)

69
 Chemicals and reagents required and method of analysis to be followed in Mixed
Indicator Method is issued in detail by FCI, Hqrs vide letter no. QC.19/R&D/ Mixed
indicator /2021-22 dated 01.10.2021.

Ava Yell
Gre cado Yell ow ora
green ow orange nge
Procedure for appeal against the rejection of rice lots by FCI during
acceptance of custom milled rice
1. The checking of delivered lots of rice for acceptance should be completed within 24
hours of dumping by concerned Technical Assistant /Manager (QC).

2. In case of rejection by Manager (QC) and appeal lodged by the supplier in writing on
rejection of lots, 4 sealed joint samples will be drawn by Manager (QC) associating
the representatives of the agency concerned /rice millers. Three samples will be sent
to district lab immediately along with the appeal. 4th sealed sample will be given to
State Government or its representative. In case State Government requests for
review of analysis results of third appeal at CGAL, 4th sample with State Government
will act as review sample for analysis by CGAL.
3. On first appeal at district lab, AGM(QC) will analyse one of the sealed samples jointly
with the representative of the State Government /rice miller within three working
days and shall inform them outcome of the analysis.
4. The representative of State Government /rice miller will submit a letter to AGM(QC)
indicating either acceptance of analysis results or his intention to prefer an appeal in
case of dispute with the results; the same day. In case of non- acceptance of results,
2nd sealed sample should be sent to regional office on next working day alongwith
the letter of appeal given by the representative of State Govemment/rice miller.
5. In case no representative of State Government/ rice miller is present for joint
analysis, the outcome of the analysis shall be informed to the agency concerned /rice
miller through e-mail and in writing by AGM(QC) on the day of analysis itself. The
concerned State agency /rice miller shall have two working days time to respond and
communicate to regional office whether they intend to avail the option of next level
of appeal under intimation to AGM(QC).
6. At regional level DGM(QC) of Regional Office, FCI will decide the appeal by analyzing
70
 the second sealed sample associating representative of State agency/rice miller
within 3 working days. The outcome of the analysis shall be infonned to the agency
concerned /rice miller through e-mail and in writing by DGM(QC) on the day of
analysis itself. In case of non-settlement of objection/dispute, the State Government
shall have two working days time to respond and communicate to CGAL, Krishi
Bhawan, New Delhi of their intention to avail the option of referring the matter to
CGAL alongwith third sealed sample under intimation to DGM(QC) regional office of
J'Cl.
7. On receipt of sample, the CGAL will communicate the results to State Government
and FCI within 5 working days. In case State Government wants to request for
review of analysis results of CGAL, they should communicate and provide review
sample to CGAL for analysis with in 3 working days under intimation to concerned
FCI Regional/ District office. CGAL will communicate the results of review sample to
State Government and FCI within 5 working days.
8. In case Manager (QC) from district office have been deputed in the depots for
acceptance of rice, the concerned Manager (QC) will be considered as the depot staff
for acceptance /rejection of rice and in case of an appeal the concerned Manager
(QC) will not be associated in analysis of samples at district office.
9. During the pendency of appeal against the rejection of a particular rice lot, the rice
miller will be allowed to deliver rice till final out- come of the appeal i.e. within the
stipulated mandatory period. If the appeal is upheld at any level, FCI will accept the
stock and separate departmental action will be initiated against the delinquent
officers. In case appeal is rejected at all the 3 levels, the storage charges will be
levied by FCI from the date of delivery of lot of rice for acceptance as per their
procedure. Further, the miller will have to lift the rejected stock within 24 hours, if he
fails to do so, his further delivery of stocks will be stopped. In order to avoid
frivolous appeals a caution notice may be issued to the concerned rice miller in the
event of rejection of appeal at all levels as above and for repeated occurrence of
such appeal, other punitive action can be considered against the concerned rice
miller.

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Recycling of rice
 Keeping in view of ongoing welfare schemes and issuance of free rice, it is of utmost
importance to keep strict vigil that no diversion of such stocks takes place. Divisional
Manager and AGM(QC) would be responsible to check incidence of recycling of rice
stocks in FCI depots and caution the field functionaries to take corrective measures.
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  Similarly, State Government and its agencies shall be responsible to avoid any
diversion of PDS stocks in DCP states during procurement of CMR stock.
 Therefore to detect recycling by field functionaries while doing procurement
operations certain precautionary steps are to be taken as per the guidelines issued
by FCI vide HQ letter No.QC.2(1) /KMS/2021-22 dated 25.06.2021.
Movement / issue of food grain stocks
To ensure timely liquidation of old crop stocks, “First In First Out principle” should be
followed. A centralized priority list shall be drawn based on the guidelines on FIFO
issued in detail by FCI in circular No.1/2014 vide file
no.QC.6(1)//Stg.Inst/FIFO-2013 dated 13.03.2014 at the beginning of each
month and shall be strictly followed at the time of issue of stocks from depot as well
as at the time of drawing liquidation plans for central pool stocks by the district and
regional offices.

Quality complaint procedure

 On receipt of food grains by truck or wagons ,the representative samples of the
stocks truck-wise /wagon wise will be drawn by the consignee. The sample thus
drawn will be analysed with reference to specifications and standards. If stocks
donot confirm to specifications an intimation will be sent to consignor District
manager. After lodging the complaint, stocks under complaint should be inspected by
AM(QC)[Now Manager(QC)] and he should prepare general assessment report of
quality and condition of stocks.
 The consignor District manager on receipt of assessment report allow QC officials
who dispatched the stocks to visit destination for joint inspection which should be
completed within 25 days.
 There will be no joint inspection for Infestation and moisture complaints. ICCS
(Independent consignment certificate squad) in which Manager (QC) being one
member may be asked to ensure strict supervision/verify the infestation and
moisture content at the time of both loading and unloading and send the report to
consignee/consignor area manager for information and taking appropriate action.

Loss assessment statement

 The LAS shall be prepared on the basis of quality cuts to be imposed for the
refractions exceeding the limits specified in prescribed specifications
 The loss assessment statement shall be prepared after the expiry of period of 25
days from the date of unloading of stocks and it should be submitted by the
consignee region within 30 days of unloading the stocks
 For quality complaints against the stocks stored in CWC godowns Fci representative
should authenticate the condition of stocks,if he is not available warehouse manager
will take the action.
 In this regard a detailed procedure for lodging quality complaints has been issued by
FCI in the office circular no.12/2002 vide file
no.QC.5(22)Proc.Qlty.comp./2001 dated 03.06.2002 dated 07/02/2020.

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 (5) STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP) FOR PROVIDING OF
NECESSARY INFRASTRUCTURE FOR PROPER UP KEEP OF HEALTH OF
FOODGRAIN STOCKS IN GODOWNS AT WAREHOUSES:

The availability of following Chemicals/Equipments are required to be ensured in the

godowns to provide for necessary infrastructure for proper up keep of health of foodgrains
stocks in godowns:

Name of Chemical: Malathion 50% EC*

BIS Specification BIS-2567-1978 with up-to-date amendments
Preparation (Dilution) (a)One litre of emulsion with 100 litres of water (1:100).
Dosage (a) Surface treatment 3 litres of prepared solution for
every 100 Sq metres.
(b)Aerial spray 1 litre prepared solution for 270 cubic
meter.
Mode of application Applied in the form of spray with the aid of Foot Operated/
Power Sprayers or Fog Generators.
States A. J&K, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, UP, Bihar,
Rajasthan, M.P.
B. Rest of State/ Union territories.
Frequency For Area “A” above:
(1) Once in 3 weeks in November to February.
(2) Every fortnight during March to October.
For Area “B” above:
Every fortnight throughout the year.
Availability of chemical Minimum three months requirements should be available
at any point of time.
Remarks (*) As per the GoI guidelines, Malathion has to be discontinued by March,
2023
Name of Chemical: Deltamethrin 2.5% W.P.
BIS Specification BIS-13457-1992 with up-to-date amendments
Preparation (Dilution) 40 gms / litre
Dosage Surface treatment 3 litres of prepared solution for every
100 Sq metres.
Mode of application Applied in the form of spray with the aid of Foot
Operated/ Power Sprayers or Fog Generators.
Frequency 90 days (3 months)
Availability of chemical Minimum three months requirements should be available
at any point of time.

Name of Chemical: Aluminum Phosphide Tablets

BIS Specification BIS: 6438-1980 with upto date amendments
Dosage a. Covered godowns (bag storage) is 9 Gms (3 Gms × 3
tablets) per MT of food grain.
b. CAP Storage: 9 Gms /MT + 20% extra dose
c. Shed fumigation: 63 Gms/ 28 m3
d. Khapra beetle infestation: 9 Gms /MT +
50% extra dose
Exposure period 5 to 7 days
Availability of chemical Minimum three months requirements should be available
at any point of time.

Name of Covers: LDPE Cover

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 BIS Specification BIS 2508-2016 with up-to-date amendments.
Cover Specification a. Type: “ I ”
b. Size of Cover: 32' x 21' x 17' (feet) (with five sides)
c. Thickness: 250 micron
d. Color: Black
e. Minimum Weight of Cover: 54 kgs
f. Minimum Average Weight of Cover per lot: 55 kgs
Precautions while a. To achieve and maintain the concentration of fumigant,
using the stacks under fumigation must be made air tight by
the mud plastering /placement of ‘sand snakes’ (double
row)/ cello tapes to retain the phosphine gas liberated
to the maximum extent.
b. Also, if LDPE covers were used for fumigation, it
must be completely free from holes and should not
be cut or torn. Complete air tightness is the essence
of success of fumigation operation.
Availability of a. 12 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity below
Covers 50000MT which are not located in city/ residential area.
b. 14 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity below
50000MT which are located in city/ residential area.
c. 14 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity
50000MT and above irrespective of locations of godowns.
d. For CAP Storage: LDPE Covers 10% extra of CAP capacity.

Name of Covers: CLTF Covers

BIS Specification BIS Specification No. 14611-2016 with up-to-date
amendments.
Cover Specification a. Type: “Heavy Duty”(HN)
b. Size of Cover: 32' x 21' x 17' (feet) (with fiv-e sides)
c. Minimum Mass per Unit: 200 Gram per Sq Mt (GSM)
d. Color: Sky Blue
e. Minimum Weight of Cover: 50.2 kgs
f. Thickness: 200 GSM
g. Fumigation Retention Test: As per 13217-1991 with up-to-
date amendments
Precautions while a. To achieve and maintain the concentration of the fumigant,
using the stacks under fumigation must be made air tight by the
mud plastering /placement of ‘sand snakes’ (double row) to
retain the phosphine liberated to the maximum extent.
b. During fumigation, CLTF covers must be completely free
from holes and should not be cut or torn. Complete air
tight condition is the essence of success of fumigation
operation.
Availability of a. 12 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity below
Covers 50000MT which are not located in city/ residential area.
b. 14 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity below
50000MT which are located in city/ residential area.
c. 14 Covers per 10000MTs for the godown capacity 50000MT
and above irrespective of locations of godowns.
Remarks: Please refer FCI HQrs instructions issued vide letter no QC-7/2(10/Misc/NZ/08/
Vol.II dated 09.04.2009.

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 Name of Equipment: Power Sprayer (Fuel/ Electric operated)
Engine/ Pump a. 2 HP (4 stroke engine petrol operated/ Electric operated
Specification power sprayers)
b. The pump should consists brass dye casting Horizontal
Gear/ Belt driven with a suction capacity of 6-10
liters/minute and should generate a pressure of 350-600
psi and the fog spray should reach a height of 25 feet.
c. The delivery hose pipe should be of PVC with 7-10 mm
diameter and minimum 45 meters length to cover the
length and breadth of the godown. Suction hose pipe
should be of 3 meters length.
d. Nozzles and lances should be of brass / non-corrosive to
Malathion and Deltamethrin.
e. A Trolley should be of Tubular mono MS frame or Angular
or C Channel MS frame suitable for fitting the pump,
motor, PVC drum/ Tank, Hose pipe and suction hose. It
should be provided with two each of front and back
wheels with rubber tyres with easy movement. The front
wheel should have turning facility with a handle.
f. The silencer exhausts of the engine should have sizable
length with bent and to be fitted vertically/ horizontally as
per the manufacturing standards so as to avoid brass
suction parts being affected from emission of smoke / hot
wave.
g. Chemical flow slow / high speed indicator required.
h. PVC Drum/ Tank should have capacity minimum of 100
Liters to be fitted on the trolley along with other
equipment.
i. Drum/ Tank should have filter apart from lid to close.
j. Reinforced hose is to be provided.
k. Governor mechanism to indicate the required pressure is
to be set up.
l. Pump should have a filter mechanism to reduce the tip
clogs and provide a quality finish of fog spray.
Availability of Power At least one power sprayer in working condition should be
sprayer maintained at all times.

Name of Equipment: Moisture Meter

BIS Specification IS: 8824(PART I), 1978 with up-to-date
amendments.
Moisture Meter a. Steel body, alphanumeric LCD displaying moisture
Specification percentage, temperature , Range 8.0-40%, Accuracy:
0.2%, Membrane keypad, auto calibration, weight not
more than 24 kg, commodity calibration-foodgrains pulse,
oil seeds etc. The moisture meter should have printing
facility of Moisture percentage, temperature other details
and also have facility for transferring recorded data to PC,
Data storage capacity should be 200 readings.
b. Provision of auto calibration.
Performance c. Calibrations as per BIS 4333 part II: 2002 / and
instructions published by DFPD.

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 Name of Equipment: Hot Air Oven
BIS Specification a. BIS: 3119:1978 with up-to-date amendments.
Oven Specification b. 900X900X900 mm-Universal double walled of S.S. inner
chamber with adjustable shelves, 220-230 volt AC
Temperature range ambient to 250 degree Celsius should
be with P.I.D. Temperature indicator/ controller and with
Air circulatory fan. With glassware drying.

General manager(R) shall ensure availability of adequate quantity of chemicals and

necessary equipments in all the divisional offices under his jurisdiction. Availability of
chemicals equivalent to three month requirement in accordance with the foodgrains stored
in the region/ all divisional offices of the region be ensured at all times.

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(6) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for calibration of Quality Control
Equipments.
1. Calibration of moisture meter with hot air oven method:

A. Moisture determination by hot air oven method:

i. Take minimum 6 replicas of test samples of 10 grams each.
ii. Grind each sample to fine powder/flour form which may pass through 40
mesh sieve. (Grinding should not generate much heat which would result in
loss of moisture)
iii. Weigh the empty petri dish with lid (w1).
iv. Immediately take 2 grams (up to 2 decimal places) of this flour in clean dried
and previously weighed petri dishes and cover it with its lid (w2)
v. Adjust temperature of air oven to 130±3°c.
vi. Place petri dishes containing 2 grams samples inside the oven and remove
their lids and keep the lids inside the oven.
vii. Maintain temperature for 2 hours.
viii. Put on the lids and transfer the petri dishes to desiccator.
ix. Weigh the petri dishes when room temperature is attained (w3).
x. a. %age of moisture = (w2-w3/w2-w1) x 100
b. *w2-w1 = weight of sample
c. W2-w3 = loss in weight due to moisture
xi. Average the results of replicas.

B. Moisture determination by digital moisture meter:

i. Determine moisture of test samples in minimum 6 replicas.
ii. Average the results of replicas

Compare the results: If there is difference between the results obtained, the
average difference will be the correction factor (+ve or -ve). Moisture meter shall have
a maximum sensitivity of ± 0.2 percent.
Moisture metre calibration shall be undertaken before start of every procurement
seasons. Calibrated Moisture metres shall be fixed calibration factor slip on each
moisture metre and shall be properly sealed to avoid any tempering with the
Moisture metre.

2. Calibration of Counter Scale with weight Box, Potable Balance and

Physical Balance 5 mg sensitivity along with weight Box:

Calibration of Counter Scale, Potable Balance with weight Box and Physical
Balance along with weight Box should be calibrated and properly stamped from the
Weight and Measurement Department as per the provisions before onset of
procurement seasons and certificate of calibration shall be kept for record.
Remarks: Divisional Manager/ AGM(QC) of the concerned divisional office shall
ensure calibration of all the moisture meters, counter scales, potable balance &
physical balance with weight box before the start of procurement season.

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(7) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Personal Protective and Safety
Equipment for Pesticide Operators
Immense care should be taken while handling and spraying pesticides. Pesticides can enter
the body through four routes of exposure including skin, eyes, mouth and inhalation. Skin
contact is the most common cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators and some
pesticides enter the body through the skin quite readily. At the time of mixing, pesticides are
more concentrated and the likelihood of injury is increased during this time. Some parts of
the body absorb pesticides extremely fast (within a few minutes) and need extra protection.
Two such areas are the head and body area between the navel and about mid-thigh. If any
pesticide is spilled in this area, wash it off immediately and change clothing. It is best to
avoid direct contact with pesticides by wearing the proper Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) as specified on the label of the pesticide intend to use.

 All personnel involved in the mixing, application, storage and cleanup of pesticides
should be properly trained and authorized for the job.
 Equipment used in the application of the pesticides should be inspected and
calibrated before use.
 Personnel mixing and applying the pesticide should wear appropriate protective
clothing and safety equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment

Gloves for Handling Pesticides: IS 6994: Part 8: 2021/ISO 18889: 2019
Properly protecting the body when handling pesticides can decrease the risk a pesticide
poses to health and safety. Pesticide handling includes mixing, loading, or applying
pesticides, all of which could expose hands to chemicals. Using the right gloves is essential
because the majority of pesticide exposure occurs through the skin.
 Always wear unlined, elbow-length gloves when handling pesticides.
 Glove Materials: materials often used or considered for use when handling pesticides
should be chemical resistant and waterproof, if possible, use Barrier laminate
or Butyl Rubber ≥ 14 mils thickness (1 mil = 0.001 inch) are resistant to most
pesticides and offer the greatest protection. They consist of two or more different
materials that are laminated or blended together.
 Never use leather or cotton gloves. These types of gloves can be more hazardous
than no protection at all because they absorb and hold the pesticide close to skin for
long periods of time.
 When finished, wash gloves with detergent and water thoroughly before removing
them and dry properly before storing.
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Body Covering
Personnel handling pesticides should always wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, face
mask, shoes, and socks. Applicators should reserve one set of clothing for pesticide use
only. Launder and store separately from all other clothing. The hair and skin on your neck
and head must be protected too. This is most important in situations where exposure from
overhead dusts or sprays is possible, such as hand-spraying uphill or when flagging for
aerial applications.

Goggles or Face Shield: IS:5983

Always wear shielded safety goggles or full-face respirator when handling pesticides. In high
exposure situations when both face and eye protection are needed, a face shield can be
worn over goggles. Clean them after each use.

Respiratory Protective Equipment: IS:9623: 2008

The purpose of respiratory protection is to ensure that the workers are adequately protected
from inhaling excessive airborne contaminants or air, which is oxygen deficient. Workers
should not be exposed to airborne contaminants in excess of their permissible exposure
levels, where possible.

Appropriate respiratory protection shall be used by workers when exposed to oxygen

deficient atmospheres or to airborne concentrations of contaminants in excess of or likely to
exceed the permissible exposure levels. Where the airborne contaminants exceed half the
permissible exposure levels, the use of appropriate respirators is advisable.

General manager(R) / Divisional Manager concerned shall ensure availability of adequate

nos of Safety Equipment for Pesticide Operators in all the depots.

*****

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