Cooperative oilseed processing management development project

This evaluation, which is attached to a special evaluation (PD-AAI-289-A1), covers the period 8/78-9/80 and is based on an onsite review. The project focus is on the development and testing of modern management systems and procedures in Indian oilseed processing plants. Five plants were selected for initial upgrading. Program scheduling was adjusted during the project"s first year when the extent of plant deficiencies became clear. In addition, the Grant Agreement completion date was extended from 8/29/81 to 2/28/82. CLUSA has provided a total of 46.5 months of expatriate technical assistance, including 4 months of in-service training to NCDC personnel. While NCDC has assigned four counterparts, none have been able to devote full time to the project. Outputs include the formulation and testing of oil processing systems and procedures, preparation of operations and training manuals, and establishment of an informal training program. An unexpected development was the amount of correlation between this project and the PL 480 Title II Oilseed Grower"s Cooperative Project. Authors recommend that every effort be made to minimize the amount of long-term participation required in the project, using in-service training and short-term advisors instead. In the future, A.I.D. should provide adequate administrative time to cover reporting, audits, and communications. In addition, "slack" time should be built into scheduling to cover delays caused by factors external to the project. The authors note that the oilseed processing industry in India could well be a classic example of inappropriate technology transfer. Two major factors are cited: (1) the original suppliers of technology provided much larger equipment than required; and (2) Indian suppliers lack any incentive to improve plants or machinery.