Himachal Pradesh Wins Best State in Food Processing Award-2024

Himachal Pradesh has been awarded the 'Best State in Food Processing Award-2024' for its exemplary initiatives in food processing. The award was presented at the Agriculture Leadership Conclave in New Delhi. The state has made significant strides in enhancing food processing infrastructure, positively impacting the rural economy and benefiting farmers.

Himachal Pradesh has bagged the 'Best State in Food Processing Award-2024' for its outstanding work through various programs in the sector, state industries minister Harshwardhan Chauhan announced on Thursday.

In a statement, Chauhan highlighted that these initiatives have significantly impacted the lives of millions of farmers and the rural population of the state. The award was presented by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari during the 'Agriculture Leadership Conclave' organized by the 'Agriculture Today Group' in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Meera Mohanty, Himachal Pradesh Resident Commissioner in Delhi, received the award on behalf of the Department of Industries. Chauhan emphasized that food processing is a priority sector for the industries department as it provides value addition and positively impacts the rural economy. This recognition underscores the state's commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in food processing.

The state government has significantly enhanced the food processing infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, boasting 23 designated food parks, one mega food park, and two agro-processing clusters. Additionally, 18 cold chain projects and numerous food processing units have been established under the State Mission on Food Processing Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana.

Last year, the state was recognized as the 'Outstanding Performing State' under the Prime Minister Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme at the World Food India event. Under this scheme, 1,320 micro food processing enterprises have been sanctioned, and significant credit-linked subsidies and seed capital have been disbursed to Self Help Groups (SHGs) and members.

(With inputs from agencies.)