Food processing alone can serve as bridge between farmers, industry: Harsimrat Kaur

CHENNAI: Food Processing is the only sector, which can act as a bridge between the farmers and the industry and following the Narendra Modi government’s decision to allow 100 per cent FDI, the food processing sector saw a 40 % increase in FDI, Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal, has said.

Calling upon Tamil Nadu to be part of the initiative, she said “time is right to invest in food processing sector and we invite Tamil Nadu to be a part of this opportunity and participate in World Food India (WFI).” The event will help showcase what Tamil Nadu has to offer to global and other domestic stakeholders, and would promote unique food processing products specific to Tamil Nadu at a global level.

The Minister was speaking at a road show held here on Thursday ahead of the World Food India event, and it was held under the aegis of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries in partnership with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The high profile delegation for Chennai Roadshow was led by Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal along with R. Doraikkannu, State Agriculture Minister.

“A mega food park is already being developed in Coimbatore and we invite investors to establish various units there for which we will provide necessary subsidies. We want Tamil Nadu to take full advantage of SAMPADA Scheme,” she informed.
 
The World Food India 2017, to be held from Nov. 3 to 5, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. 

Close to 400 companies including 80 international firms would participate in the WFI. 30 global CEOs have confirmed to attend the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Doraikkannu said, “the Government  of Tamil Nadu is working towards enhancing food processing sector in the state and the efforts will continue in near future.” He thanked Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur for choosing Chennai to organise the road show and reaching out to various stakeholders in TN.