There has been an increase in the production of horticultural crops along with the production of cereals and pulses, due to the increased demand following preference, rise in income and urbanization. After production in the farm, the produce undergoes a series of post harvest operations before they reach the consumers. Each post-harvest stage results in some losses as a result of which, the value distribution between the consumer and producer is affected. From the time of harvest till the end use, there is quantitative (decreased weight or volume) and qualitative (unwanted cha¬nges in the cosmetic features of food and reduced nutrient value) losses along the supply chain. Research and development on effective post harvest management strategies at each stage of harvesting, handling, storage, processing packing, transportation and cold chain maintenance are required to minimise the loss between production and consumption levels.