MoFPI Boosts Renewable Energy in Food Processing Sector
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) is making strides in promoting renewable energy within India’s food processing sector. By offering financial assistance for the incorporation of alternative energy technologies, MoFPI aims to enhance energy efficiency across various food processing units. Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY), projects can receive up to ₹35 lakh to integrate renewable sources like solar, biomass, and wind energy.
Mandatory Environmental Compliance
As part of the PMKSY guidelines, projects must secure a consent to operate (CTO) from the relevant state pollution control board or agency concerning water and air quality. This documentation is essential for the disbursement of grant-in-aid or subsidies for approved projects. Moreover, project implementation agencies are expected to adhere to the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change’s regulations, which include using non-ozone-depleting substances and energy-efficient cooling systems with low global warming potential.
World Food India 2025 Highlights Sustainability
In a bid to further encourage sustainable food processing, MoFPI hosted the 4th edition of World Food India 2025 from September 25 to 28. This event featured a significant focus on “Sustainability and Net Zero Food Processing,” aiming to advance resource efficiency, minimize waste, and promote environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
Innovative Packaging Solutions
The National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship & Management in Thanjavur has been actively developing sustainable packaging technologies. Efforts include the creation of biodegradable plastics and eco-friendly packaging solutions derived from biopolymers such as poly lactic acid (PLA), starch, and nanofibers.
Supporting Food Processing Infrastructure
MoFPI continues to incentivize the establishment and expansion of food processing infrastructure through its two primary central sector schemes: the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI). Additionally, the Ministry administers the PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, which provides subsidies and incentives to eligible startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Building Skills in the Industry
Under the Capacity Building component of the PMFME scheme, MoFPI supports training programs aimed at developing essential skills for entrepreneurs and industry professionals. This includes entrepreneurship development and product-specific training while strengthening backward and forward supply chains and establishing incubation centers.
Comprehensive Support for Startups and MSMEs
MoFPI, through its autonomous institutions like the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship & Management in Kundli, Haryana, and Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, provides valuable support to startups and MSMEs. This includes mentorship, access to pilot plants, NABL-accredited food testing laboratories, R&D support, and networking opportunities.
These initiatives aim to create off-farm employment opportunities and uplift farmers’ incomes by enhancing the food processing sector. The Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Shri Ravneet Singh, outlined these measures in a recent Lok Sabha reply, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustainable development in the industry.
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