Performance of Food Processing Industry in India

Abstract

India is the highest producer of milk and second largest producer of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, a large amount of that production is lost due to deficient post harvest technology. According to an estimation by Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India, the post harvest loss of fruits and vegetables range between Rs.200 to 250 crore annually. The establishment of Food Processing Industries (FPIs) can help to mitigate these colossal losses effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, generating full-time employment opportunities for the rural workforce is another positive facet of food processing industries. The fact remains that FPIs share to Gross Domesti Product (GDP) far exceeds the contribution by other manufacturing industries. As such, India can hardly afford to ignore the importance of FPIs as it can unify and combat several diverse national issues. The creation of a ministry, dedicated to the implementation of Food processing, stands as testimony to the fact that the Indian Government has taken initiatives to develop the prospect of growth in FPIs. This article focuses on the performance of FPIs in India.