The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has been actively working to enhance the food processing sector in India. In response to Lok Sabha Un-Starred Question No. †629 on 25th July 2024, the ministry provided detailed insights into the current status and future plans for food processing units in Uttar Pradesh, particularly focusing on Mango and Mentha processing. This article explores the key aspects of the response, emphasizing the number of existing units, future proposals, and the government's action plan.
Approved Units Under PMKSY: The Ministry of Food Processing Industries has approved a total of 79 food processing units in Uttar Pradesh under various components of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) till 30th June 2024. This initiative aims to create modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlets.
State-Wise Distribution: As of now, no food processing units specifically engaged in the processing of Mentha have been approved under any of the component schemes of PMKSY. This highlights a potential area for future development and investment, particularly in states with abundant Mentha production.
Focus on Mango and Mentha: The government has not proposed setting up new food processing units for Mango and Mentha in Uttar Pradesh, including Barabanki district, under the current schemes. MoFPI operates on a demand-driven approach, inviting applications from eligible entities based on the availability of funds and scheme guidelines.
Demand-Driven Approach: The Ministry of Food Processing Industries does not independently set up food processing units under PMKSY. Instead, it relies on a demand-driven model where applications and proposals are invited from eligible entities as per scheme guidelines. This approach ensures that the allocation of funds and the establishment of units are based on actual demand and availability of resources.
Expression of Interest (EOI): MoFPI periodically floats Expressions of Interest (EOI) to invite proposals from eligible entities. This process ensures transparency and encourages participation from various stakeholders. The scheme does not allocate funds on a state-wise, district-wise, or crop-specific basis, promoting a more inclusive and need-based development of food processing units.
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries continues to support the growth of food processing units across India, with a significant focus on states like Uttar Pradesh. While there are no current proposals for new Mentha processing units, the demand-driven approach under PMKSY ensures that future initiatives will be based on actual requirements and resource availability. For stakeholders in regions like Barabanki, this represents an opportunity to engage with the ministry and propose new units that can leverage local resources such as Mango and Mentha.
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