(a) whether the growth of food processing industries has been showing a declining trend;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government
to make maximum use of available fruits and vegetables in the
country in the promotion of Food Processing Industries?
THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI N.T. SHANMUGAM)
(a) No, Sir.
(b) Question does not arise.
(c) The Ministry of Food Processing Industries gives
financial assistance by way of grant upto 25% of the cost of
plant and machinery and technical civil works subject to a
maximum of Rs. 50 lakhs in general areas and 33.33% of the
cost of plant and machinery and technical civil works subject
to maximum of Rs. 75 lakhs in difficult areas for the setting
up /modernisation/expansion of food processing industries.
Approval of financial assistance is given on the basis of
technical and financial viability of the proposals received.
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries has
requested all State Governments to conduct detailed
studies, which could assist them in formulating
action oriented policies for the development of
processed food sector as also for devising action
plan and strategies for the development of the
sector and to utilise to the maximum the available
fruits and vegetables.