Food processing policy expected to pass in a cabinet meeting.

Food processing policy expected to pass in a cabinet meeting.

Patna August 6: The Food Processing Policy 2024 is expected to pass in the cabinet of the Nitish Kumar government, an official said. The cabinet meeting will be held at CM’s residence cum office in Patna on Tuesday.

Besides, the food processing policy, several other projects are expected to be approved in this meeting. The last cabinet meeting of the Nitish Kumar government was held on July 19. 

Under this policy, the Bihar government plans to establish food procession units with a concept of ‘Vocal for Local’. The Bihar government has already prepared the policy, aiming to position Bihar as a preferred destination for investors to invest in this sector.

Under this policy, the Bihar government is looking for processing units for various agricultural products like rice, wheat, maize, milk, honey, flower, chicken, fish, edible oils and others.   

The policy aims to promote local specialties like the Shahi Litchi of Muzaffarpur, Maldah Mango of Digha, Khaja of Shilao in Nalanda district, Magahi Paan and Tilkut of Gaya, Marcha and Katarni rice of Champaran, Makhana of Mithila and Jardalu mango of Bhagalpur.

Farmers of these products often face challenges in exporting their produce to other states and countries.

The Bihar government has been developing a food processing park in Muzaffarpur which spreads over 140 acres of land. Similarly, food parks are expected to develop in Darbhanga, Madhubani, Bhagalpur, Gaya, East Champaran, Rohtas, Patna and other places enhancing the state’s food processing infrastructure and attracting investment in this sector.

During 2019-20, the Bihar government recorded a food production of 163.8 lakh tonnes, which increased to 184.9 lakh tonnes in 2021-22, indicating significant agricultural growth. The fertile lands of Bihar are ideal for year-round farming.

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The Food Processing Policy 2024 will aim to provide new job opportunities for the youths within the state, potentially reducing migration to another state for employment.

This policy is expected to create a more vibrant local economy by leveraging the state’s agricultural potential.

EOM.