The Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has stepped up its push for modern processing technologies to make India’s food sector more productive, higher in quality, and globally competitive. The latest initiatives focus on R&D support, capacity building, and branding assistance for stakeholders across the value chain—from research institutions to micro enterprises and farmer collectives.
Modern tech and R&D push
Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY), MoFPI is extending grant-in-aid to universities, CSIR-recognised institutes, and private R&D units for demand-driven research in food processing technology. As of December 31, 2025, 257 research projects have been approved with subsidies totalling Rs 102.47 crore, underscoring a strong tilt toward science-led innovation. Institutions like NIFTEM Kundli and NIFTEM Thanjavur are among the key centres driving sector-focused research and technology development for the industry.
Building skills at the grassroots
Alongside R&D, the ministry is scaling up capacity-building initiatives under the PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme. Grants are being made available for training Master Trainers, district resource persons, and entrepreneurs, as well as collectives such as Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and cooperatives. These training programmes cover critical areas including FSSAI regulations, food quality, and hygiene practices to strengthen on-ground adherence to safety and quality standards.
Branding, marketing and global reach
MoFPI is also focusing on helping Indian food products stand out in the market through structured branding and marketing support. Eligible groups can receive up to 50 per cent grant assistance to develop common packaging, quality control frameworks, and cohesive branding strategies. Additionally, under the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI), international outreach support is being offered to encourage overseas branding and marketing for emerging Indian food brands.
Impact on farmers and micro enterprises
Officials expect these interventions to collectively increase processing capacity, promote value addition, and drive innovation across the sector. The measures are designed to improve returns for farmers, micro-enterprises, and other small players by integrating them into a more efficient and technology-enabled processing ecosystem. In the long run, the ministry believes this multi-pronged approach will reinforce the growth trajectory of India’s food processing industry and strengthen its position in both domestic and global markets.
Source: FNB News