New Delhi, October 1, 2024 – In a significant move towards bolstering food security management, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has announced the installation of a modern IP-based video surveillance system across its storage depots. This initiative is part of the “100 Days Achievements” program of the Department of Food and Public Distribution, under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
As part of the upgrade, approximately 23,750 high-resolution cameras will be deployed across 561 FCI-owned depots, transitioning from the outdated analog CCTV systems to a state-of-the-art IP-based surveillance framework. This modernization follows a successful Proof of Concept (POC) conducted by the Quality Council of India (QCI) at the Food Storage Depot in Shyamanagar, showcasing the efficacy and reliability of the new technology.
Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities
The new surveillance system is designed to significantly improve monitoring capabilities. It offers high-resolution imaging, enhanced scalability, and the ability for remote access, allowing for real-time oversight of food grain storage operations. This improvement is critical as FCI plays a vital role in India’s food grain management, particularly in procurement, storage, and distribution.
Effective surveillance is essential for maintaining the integrity of the Public Distribution System and ensuring that buffer stocks of essential commodities are consistently available across the country. Currently, 516 FCI depots are under CCTV surveillance, with the initial installations dating back to 2013-14, where 61 depots were equipped with cameras.
Advanced Features and Command Control Center
The modernized system will incorporate several advanced analytics features, including:
Camera Tampering Detection: Alerts when a camera’s position or functionality is compromised.
Field of View Changes: Notifications if a camera’s focus area is altered.
Motion Detection and Trip Wires: Real-time alerts for unauthorized movements in secured areas.
To facilitate efficient monitoring, a centralized Command Control Centre (CCC) and a Network Operating Centre (NoC) will be established at the FCI Headquarters. This will enable comprehensive oversight of the installed systems and facilitate the storage of incidental data on demand.
Additionally, the system will be equipped with environmental and humidity sensors on a pilot basis, providing crucial data to assess storage conditions and ensure optimal management of food grains.
Conclusion
The installation of the new IP-based video surveillance system marks a pivotal step in enhancing the security and operational efficiency of the Food Corporation of India. By leveraging advanced technology, FCI aims to fortify its commitment to ensuring food security across India, safeguarding the nation’s agricultural interests, and upholding the efficacy of various welfare schemes. This proactive approach not only strengthens the monitoring of storage operations but also positions FCI as a forward-thinking entity in the realm of food grain management.
As FCI continues to evolve with modern technology, the anticipated improvements in surveillance capabilities are expected to play a crucial role in supporting India’s food security framework for years to come.