India Boosts Millet Processing Industry with New Initiatives
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) is taking significant steps to enhance the development of food processing industries, with a special focus on millet processing. Through various Central Sector Schemes—such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI)—the ministry is incentivizing the establishment and expansion of infrastructure vital for this sector.
A key aspect of the PLISFPI scheme is the Millet-Based Products (MBP) focus, featuring a dedicated budget of Rs. 800 crores. This initiative aims to boost the utilization of millets in food products and enhance their value by supporting manufacturing and sales in both domestic and international markets. To date, almost all—Rs. 793.27 crores—of the allocated funds have been approved for 29 applicants, encompassing 8 large enterprises and 21 small to medium enterprises.
Expanding Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
The PMFME Scheme has identified millet-based products as the One District One Product (ODOP) in 21 districts nationwide. Celebrating the International Year of Millet (IYoM 2023), Millet Mahotsav events were held in 30 districts across different states and union territories. These festivals aim to support micro food processing entrepreneurs, particularly those involved in millet product processing, thereby promoting startups and boosting the micro food sector. As a result, Rs. 226.40 crores in loans have been sanctioned to 4,366 entrepreneurs engaged in the manufacture of millet-based products.
Strengthening the Processing Infrastructure
Moreover, under the Creation/Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities (CEFPPC) component of PMKSY, one millet processing unit has been approved in the country. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance food processing capabilities.
The PMFME scheme also emphasizes branding and marketing by supporting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and cooperatives. These entities are encouraged to develop standardized packaging and branding for millet-based products, ensuring quality control and adherence to food safety regulations.
Monitoring Impact and Export Growth
While there has not been a specific study conducted by the MoFPI to evaluate the impact of millet processing on farmers’ incomes through the scheme’s implementation, it is noted that incentives under PLISFPI are provided only when the entire manufacturing process occurs within India. The export of agricultural processed food products, approved under the PLISFPI, has shown promising growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.23% from 2019-20 to 2024-25.
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