Question : PROMOTION OF FPI



(a) whether the Government propose to make use of Research and Development on Garlic and Onions to promote Food Processing Industries; and

(b) if so, the details thereof?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI N.T. SHANMUGAM)

(a): Minister of Food Processing Industries under its Plan Scheme provides financial assistance to NGOs, public sector undertakings, co-operatives and private entrepreneurs for setting up, modernisation and technological upgradation of food processing units. Financial assistance provided under the Scheme is also available for promoting food processing industries arising out of research & development efforts. Ministry on its own does not set up such units.

(b): The financial assistance in the form of grant-in-aid is provided up to 25% of the cost of plant & machinery and technical civil works subject to a maximum of Rs. 50.00 lakhs in general areas and 33% of the cost of plant & machinery and technical civil works up to a maximum of Rs. 75.00 lakhs in difficult areas.