The rise of India’s food processing sector: A review of government support and entrepreneurial success stories

Abstract

The food processing industry in India is one of the fastest-growing sectors that connects farming, manufacturing and trade. It helps farmers to get better prices by turning raw produce into value-added products, creates employment and reduces food waste. According to the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI, 2024-25), the sector contributes about 7.93 per cent GVA to manufacturing and 8.45 per cent GVA to agriculture, showing its growing importance in India’s economy. This review article explains how the industry has developed, supported by government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY), PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) and also highlights the success stories of Indian brands which have modernized traditional food systems through innovation and technology. Therefore, the sector is playing a key role in India’s growth by creating jobs, supporting farmers and promoting Indian food worldwide, in line with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.