The Rise of Food Processing Projects

Advancements in Food Processing Under PMKSY: Boosting Agriculture and Employment : In recent months, India’s food processing sector has gained notable momentum under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). This central scheme is transforming rural economies by supporting large-scale processing facilities and minimizing agricultural waste. With 1,646 sanctioned projects already under way, the program promises a more sustainable agricultural and industrial ecosystem.

About the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana

PMKSY, launched by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, aims to modernise the country’s food sector and reduce post-harvest losses. Key features include Mega Food Parks, cold chain development, and agro-processing clusters, all of which help create a connected value chain from farm to consumer.

Financial Backing and Investments

As of December 2024, the scheme has sanctioned projects worth ₹31,830.23 crore, attracting ₹22,722.55 crore in private investment. This massive financial stimulus supports both infrastructure growth and the larger goal of making India a global food hub.

Employment and Farmer Empowerment

PMKSY has a significant employment impact. It is expected to create 13.42 lakh jobs and add 428.04 LMT of annual processing capacity. The scheme directly benefits over 51 lakh farmers, ensuring better pricing, reduced wastage, and improved market access for their produce.

Small Enterprises and PMFME Yojana

The PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme under PMKSY targets small and local food processors. Since 2020-21, it has supported over 3.10 lakh SHGs and 1.14 lakh individual units, encouraging rural entrepreneurship and food innovation at the grassroots level.

Expanding Food Preservation: Irradiation Units

To boost food safety, the government plans 50 multi-product irradiation units that extend shelf life and maintain food quality. Twenty proposals are under review, highlighting a proactive approach toward food preservation and hygiene.

The Role of PLI in Food Processing

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme complements PMKSY by supporting 133 companies with over ₹8,910 crore in investments. This is aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and technology adoption in the Indian food sector.

Strengthening India’s Agro-Economy

Agro-processing is central to value addition in Indian agriculture. Whether it’s turning mangoes into pulp or tomatoes into paste, such initiatives multiply farmer income and reduce dependency on raw exports. PMKSY enables India’s food economy to become more resilient, profitable, and employment-rich.

Static GK Snapshot

Advancements in Food Processing Under PMKSY: Boosting Agriculture and Employment :