The food processing sector has seen substantial growth thanks to the Government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which has so far attracted investments worth Rs 7,000 crore.
Additionally, it has created over 2.5 lakh man-days of employment opportunities, a senior official from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) confirmed on Tuesday.
Ranjit Singh, Joint Secretary at MoFPI, highlighted the sector’s crucial role in India’s agricultural transformation while speaking at a Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) event.
He stated that the Ministry has funded nearly 1,600 projects, which have collectively contributed to an increase of 41 lakh tonnes in food processing capacity.
These efforts have benefited nearly 9 lakh farmers across the country.
Singh emphasised the pivotal role of food processing in agricultural diversification and value addition.
He pointed out that it helps reduce post-harvest losses and creates surpluses that can be exported.
“A robust food processing sector ensures better returns for farmers, creates employment opportunities, and boosts export revenues,” Singh explained.
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The food processing sector, he added, acts as a critical link between the primary and secondary sectors, enhancing the value of agricultural produce.
It also drives demand for Indian products in global markets, thereby opening new avenues for growth.
To fully realise the sector’s potential, Singh stressed the importance of continuous upgrades to processing, packaging, storage, and distribution systems.
This will allow India to meet both domestic and international standards, positioning the country as a competitive player in the global food market.
The MoFPI is actively implementing several key initiatives to bolster the sector.
Among these is the Kisan Sampada Yojana, which aims to build cold chains, agro-processing clusters, and food testing bodies while also supporting research and development (R&D).
Another notable initiative is the Prime Minister’s Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, which promotes infrastructure development, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the sector.
Singh revealed that, as a result of these schemes, many small enterprises are now working towards scaling up to medium-sized businesses.
Launched in 2020, the PMFME scheme has already supported nearly 2 lakh micro-enterprises, offering credit-linked subsidies and infrastructure development to fuel their growth.
Highlighting the untapped potential of India’s agricultural sector, Singh reiterated the importance of supporting domestic manufacturing through government policies.
He noted that with targeted interventions, the sector could significantly contribute to India’s self-reliance, positioning the country as a global food basket.
In addition to these initiatives, Singh addressed the issue of misleading advertisements related to processed foods.
The MoFPI has set up a committee to monitor and oversee such ads, with a focus on ensuring that consumers receive accurate information.
He also mentioned the ministry’s plan to collaborate with social media influencers to promote correct messaging about processed food products.
As the sector continues to expand, the MoFPI remains dedicated to fostering a thriving food processing industry that can meet the demands of both domestic and global markets.
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