Question.
“Indian food processing industry has not grown with the pace of developed countries. “Discuss it.
( UPPSC, UP PCS Mains General Studies-III/GS-3 2020)
Answer.
The food processing industry is one kind of agro-based industry which involved in food processing to make food that is in a more processed form. Examples of Food processing industries are the dairy processing industry, sugarcane industry, Potato Chips processing units, beverage making( tea, coffee, and cooldrinks), fish, poultry, meat products, and edible oil processing.
Food processing industries are key for increasing farmers’ income, reducing wastage of food products, reducing food-related inflation, food security, and value addition in farm products. The food processing industry provides a linkage between the agriculture sector and the industry sector of the economy
It is true that the Indian food processing industry has not grown at the same pace as developed countries. There are several factors contribute to these disparities-
Infrastructure- The lack of adequate infrastructure, including cold storage facilities, and transportation networks, hampers the growth of the food processing industry.
Villages are not well connected to markets or food processing units. Inadequate infrastructure leads to supply chain inefficiencies, post-harvest losses, and increased costs, making it challenging to compete with developed countries.
Market Orientation; Indian food processing has focused on meeting domestic demand, rather than actively seeking export opportunities. Other hand developed countries have focused on global trade, and they are more export-oriented.
Quality and Safety standard; Meeting international quality and safety standards is crucial for getting global markets. Indian food processing often faces issues related to hygiene, food safety practices, and poor-quality products.
Technology and Innovation; Advanced technologies and innovations are essential for the growth of the food processing sector. However, limited access to advanced technology, automation, skilled manpower, and research, hinders the industry’s progress in India.
However, to address this hindrance and promotion of growth of food processing units, the Indian government has launched many initiatives like PM Gati Shakti scheme for infrastructure development, the Skill India program, Food and Safety, and Standard Act to facilitate export opportunities, ease of doing business and make in India program to get foreign fund and technology, and Market Diversification and export promotion. Continuous support on this will make progress in the food processing Industry.
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