Transformation in India's Food Processing Sector

In the makhana belts of Madhubani, Bihar, a quiet revolution is transforming traditional agriculture into a powerful enterprise. The narrative of Gyanish Kumar Mishra, a young entrepreneur who turned foxnut (makhana) into a nationally recognized brand, serves as a microcosm of India's broader mission: utilizing local strengths for global opportunities. Supported by the Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, Mishra's business now exports to the US and Canada, embodying the structural transformation that aligns rural strengths with national growth.

Key Developments in the Food Processing Sector

• Policy and Institutional Support:
  • Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has shifted towards enhancing the Ease of Doing Business.
  • The food processing sector has emerged as a key driver for inclusive growth, agri-industrial integration, and global engagement.
• Economic Growth:
  • Gross value addition in the sector increased from Rs 1.34 lakh crore in 2014 to Rs 2.24 lakh crore.
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana:
  • Sanctioned 1,604 projects, creating over 250 lakh metric tonnes of processing capacity.
  • Rs 22,000 crore in private investment, benefiting 53 lakh farmers and creating over 7.6 lakh jobs.
• PMFME Scheme:
  • Launched with Rs 10,000 crore under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
  • Sanctioned 1.41 lakh loans worth Rs 11,205 crore to micro-enterprises, supporting 3.3 lakh SHG members.
  • Trained over one lakh individuals and launched 17 regional brands.

Further Initiatives and Innovations

• Production Linked Incentive Scheme:
  • Committed Rs 8,900 crore, creating 3.3 lakh jobs and adding 67 lakh metric tonnes of capacity.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • 50 multi-product irradiation units and 100 NABL-accredited food testing labs announced for food safety and export readiness.
• National Makhana Board:
  • Established to boost value addition, branding, and global positioning of makhana.

Technological and Educational Advancements

• NIFTEM Institutes:
  • NIFTEM-Kundli and NIFTEM-Thanjavur are shaping future food technologists and entrepreneurs.
  • A new NIFTEM is coming up in Bihar to tap into eastern India's talent pool.
• Food-Tech Startups:
  • Over 5,000 innovators working on plant-based products, AI in traceability, and sustainable packaging.

Global Engagement and Local Impact

• World Food India:
  • A platform showcasing India's strengths in food processing, fostering global investment and collaboration.
• Grassroots Transformation:
  • In Chhattisgarh, Mahua flowers have been reimagined into value-added products, reaching national and international markets.

As India celebrates 11 years of commitment to good governance and inclusive growth, the goal remains to see Indian products on every shelf globally, reflecting collective prosperity and national pride.