To ensure environmental responsibility, MoFPI mandates that all approved projects secure Consent to Operate certificates for air and water compliance from respective state pollution control boards. Cold chain operators are also required to utilize non-ozone-depleting and low global-warming-potential refrigerants, aligning with broader climate commitments.
This regulatory push aims to modernize India’s food processing infrastructure, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage wider adoption of energy-efficient cooling systems that are vital for minimizing product loss.
World Food India 2025 Focuses on Net-Zero Transition
The ministry highlighted that the 4th edition of World Food India 2025, held from September 25 to 28, placed “Sustainability and Net-Zero Food Processing” at the heart of its agenda. The event showcased innovations in resource efficiency, waste reduction, smart packaging, and low-carbon technologies, drawing participation from global industry leaders, startups, and research institutions.
The event served as a platform for promoting environmentally conscious manufacturing, green packaging materials, and circular economy solutions for the fast-growing sector.
NIFTEM’s Breakthrough in Biodegradable Packaging
In a significant boost for green manufacturing, NIFTEM-Thanjavur, an autonomous institute under MoFPI, has been developing cutting-edge biodegradable packaging materials. Using biodegradable plastics, polylactic acid (PLA), starch composites, and nanofibers, researchers are working to replace conventional plastic with sustainable alternatives suitable for a wide range of food products.
The initiative is expected to help curb plastic pollution while meeting the rising consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Infrastructure and Entrepreneur Support Through Flagship Schemes
MoFPI continues to strengthen the sector through three major schemes: PMKSY, the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI), and PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME). These schemes offer subsidies, incentives, and capacity-building support to startups, MSMEs, and large enterprises.
Under the PMFME scheme, the ministry funds training programs for district resource persons, trainers, entrepreneurs, and self-help groups. The initiative focuses on entrepreneurship development, product-specific skilling, establishing incubation centers, and enabling better market access.
Two premier institutes NIFTEM-Kundli and NIFTEM-Thanjavur provide mentoring, pilot plant access, NABL-accredited labs, incubation services, and networking assistance. These facilities play a crucial role in nurturing innovation and supporting emerging food brands across the country.
Boosting Farmer Incomes and Off-Farm Employment
All three schemes are implemented nationwide, ensuring that benefits reach farmers, youth, and MSMEs in every state. The government believes that the combined push toward modern infrastructure, green energy, and capacity building will not only generate off-farm employment but also increase farmers’ incomes by strengthening the entire value chain.
With sustainability becoming a central pillar of India’s food processing policy, MoFPI’s initiatives mark a decisive move toward a greener, more resilient, and globally competitive agro-food ecosystem. The sector’s transition to renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies is expected to accelerate further in the coming years, especially as global markets increasingly prefer sustainable production.