Changing a post-harvest system: Impact of diffused light potato stores in Sri Lanka

This paper presents a case study describing the initial transfer and impact of a new post-harvest technology in Sri Lanka. Conditions in the main potato producing regions in 1980 were conducive to rapid acceptance of low cost, diffused light seed storage. Due to rising costs of foreign seed, unavailability of seed at optimal planting times, heavy losses in handling and storage, government concern with foreign exchange and extension involvement, farmers became receptive to new methods for improving existing storage practices. This study of adoption and impact illustrates how improved post-harvest technology can have important consequences, not only in cutting storage losses, but in increasing yields, changing cropping patterns, reducing dependency on foreign seed imports and bringing prestige to agricultural research and extension programs.