The Food Industry plays an important role in the national economy. In today’s global market, quality and food safety have become competitive edge for the enterprises producing foods and providing services. Therefore, the installation of ISO: 9000 Quality Management Systems and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) based food safety system is extremely desirable in view of the changing scenario in the international trade. The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is operating a Plan Scheme to motivate the food processing industries for adoption/implementation of food safety and quality assurance mechanisms such as Total Quality Management (TQM) including ISO-9000, ISO-14000, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygienic Practices (GHP) and prepare them to face the global competition in international trade in post WTO era.
Under the Plan Scheme approved for 10th Plan, assistance in the form of grant-in-aid was provided to Central/State Government Organizations/IITs and Universities to the extent of 50% of the total cost of the project in general areas and 75% in difficult areas. The absolute ceiling will remain Rs. 10.00 lakhs and Rs. 15.00 lakhs respectively. For all other implementing agencies, the grant-in-aid is available up to 33% of the project cost subject to a maximum limit of Rs. 10 lakhs for general areas and 50% to a maximum of Rs. 15.00 lakhs for difficult areas towards implementation of Total Quality Management including obtaining ISO-9000 Certification, HACCP etc.
The objectives of this Plan Scheme were as under:
• To motivate the food processing industries for adoption of food safety and quality assurance mechanism such as TQM including ISO-9000, ISO-14000, HACCP, GMP, GHP/
• To prepare them to face the global competition in international trade in post WTO regime.
• To enable adherence to stringent quality in hygiene norms.
• To enhance product acceptance by overseas buyers.
• To keep Indian industry technologically abreast of international best practices.
During the financial year 2007-2008, the Ministry has released financial assistance to various food processing industries for implementation of HACCP, ISO-9000, GMP, GHP practices. During 11th Five Year Plan, the Ministry has proposed a modified scheme for consideration to cater to the needs of various stakeholders and ensure Food Safety, consumer protection & improving the accessibility of export products.
VL/VN
(Release ID :39268)