The food processing sector in India faces significant challenges including inadequate infrastructure, post-harvest losses, and limited market linkages. The Government of India has implemented comprehensive policy measures to transform this sector into a global manufacturing hub.

Infrastructure Development Through PMKSY

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) launched with enhanced budget of ₹6,520 crore for 2024-25
• 41 Mega Food Parks established with 24 operational and 17 under implementation as of 2025
• Development of 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 food testing labs with ₹1,920 crore allocation
• Creation of Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses from 40% to 20%
• Establishment of Primary Processing Centers and Collection Centers at farm gate level

Cold Chain and Storage Solutions

• Allocation of ₹4,600 crore until March 2026 for cold chain infrastructure development
• Financial incentives for Private Sectors, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
• Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for energy-efficient cold storage facilities
• Implementation of Mobile Processing Units for remote agricultural areas
• Development of Pack House facilities with modern grading and packaging technology

Export Promotion and Market Access

• Launch of comprehensive Agriculture Export Policy 2024 targeting $60 billion food exports by 2025
• Establishment of product-specific export promotion forums by APEDA
• Farmer Connect Portal linking farmers directly with international buyers
• Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) and Market Access Initiative (MAI) for logistics enhancement
• District as Export Hubs (DEH) scheme promoting unique regional products

Technology and Innovation Support

• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for food processing with ₹10,900 crore outlay
• SAMPADA 2.0 focusing on technology upgradation and R&D promotion
• Support for Agri-tech startups through dedicated incubation centers
• Implementation of blockchain technology for supply chain transparency
• Promotion of food fortification and organic processing initiatives

These policy interventions demonstrate government commitment to creating a robust food processing ecosystem. Success depends on effective implementation and continued private sector participation in building India's food processing capabilities.