(a) whether keeping in view the fact that India is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world, there is any need for linking/ connecting the rural areas with food processing sector;
(b) whether any programme is being implemented by the Government in this regard;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES
(SADHVI NIRANJAN JYOTI)
(a) & (b) Yes, Madam.
(c) The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is implementing a number of Central Sector Schemes for promotion and development of food processing sector in the country. These are (1) Scheme for Mega food Parks (2) Scheme for Modern Abattoirs (3) Scheme for Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure (4) Scheme for Creation/Expansion of Food Processing and Preservation (5) Scheme for Quality Assurance (6) Scheme for Human Resource and Institutions. Under the schemes for Mega Food Parks and Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, the agricultural production areas are linked with the processing clusters/ distribution hubs through setting up of Primary Processing Centres/ Collection Centres/ Minimal Processing Centres with an objective of providing backward linkage of food processing industries with the agricultural production centres in rural areas to benefit farmers. The detailed guidelines of these schemes having the pattern of financial assistance, eligibility criteria, procedure for approval of projects etc. are available on the Ministry’s website at www.mofpi.nic.in.
(d) Does not arise.
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