The Department of Food Processing Industries, Government of Sikkim, has conducted a one-day orientation training programme on food processing for Self-Help Group (SHG) beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme. The session was organised in collaboration with Positron Computer Education Institute at its Tadong, Gangtok campus and drew participants from both Gangtok and Mangan districts.
Focus on entrepreneurship and value addition: The training aimed to equip SHG members with practical knowledge to set up and scale micro food processing enterprises, with a focus on strengthening grassroots initiatives and promoting entrepreneurship in rural areas. Officials emphasised that the PMFME scheme, supported by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, is a key driver for value addition and formalisation of micro food units nationwide, offering financial assistance, technical guidance and capacity-building support.
Training content and compliance: Experts at the programme covered core aspects of food processing, including business planning, packaging, branding and adherence to food safety regulations. Participants were also exposed to modern processing techniques and market-linkage strategies designed to help locally produced food products reach wider markets.
Leveraging local produce and rural development: The initiative highlighted the potential of Sikkim’s rich agricultural base, encouraging the processing of local produce such as ginger, vegetables and spices to increase farmers’ incomes and generate employment. By promoting value addition at the local level, the programme aims to support sustainable rural development and create a more resilient food processing ecosystem in the state.
Building a stronger micro-enterprise ecosystem: Officials noted that such capacity-building initiatives are essential to empower SHG beneficiaries with technical skills and business know-how, thereby boosting micro-enterprise development in Sikkim. The government expects that continuous training and handholding under the PMFME scheme will help build a competitive micro food processing sector and strengthen rural livelihoods.
Source: FnB News