How does the food processing industry aid economic growth in India? Briefly discuss four skill development initiatives in the Indian food processing industry. (Answer in 250 words)
Main Body
The food processing industry in India is expected to grow at an annual growth rate of 16-18% in the next/upcoming year according to economists 2022-23. Food processing aide economic growth: (1) Currently food processing contribute around 8% of manufacturing GVA. (2) Value addition to agricultural products improving farmers incomes and conversion procurement. (3) Eg: Procurement of milk from farmers by Uccelia firms in Tamil Nadu for dairy products. (4) Shifting workforce away from employment in disguised unemployment on agriculture. (5) Improving agricultural waste and improving marketing of agricultural products.
Conclusion
Skill development initiatives in India food processing industry: (1) PM formalization of micro food processing industry - providing village clusters to enter formal sector in food processing, improved incomes, access to credit and schemes. (2) PLI scheme for food processing industries - providing incentives to incremental producers in the industry, fueling investment and incentives for skilling of personnel. (3) APEDA along with ministry of commerce creating awareness on necessity of skilling of personnel and workers on agriculture for food processing. (4) Food processing skilling certification under FICI - increasing knowledge level and awareness among workers. Hence food processing as a sunrise sector has huge potential in India with presently only 5% of produce being processed for economic growth and livelihood of farmers.
122 words
Aditya Narayan H
Agriculture and Food Security
Food processing
Economic growth and skill development in food processing
259
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