National workshop on new perspectives in research and development in Food Processing Sector

Shri Subodh Kant Sahai, Minister of Food Processing Industries inaugurated National Workshop on “New Perspectives in Research and Development in Food processing Sector” here today. In his inaugural session speech, Shri Sahai said that presently the levels of food processing in the country are around 10% though India is- the largest producers of milk, tea and pulses and the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables, rice, wheat and sugarcane. The levels of processing are low as compared to developed/some neighbouring countries.

The Minister informed that as per the Vision 2015 the level of processing of perishables is to be taken to 20% and value addition to 35%. To achieve the above targets research and development in the sector is a critical component. India is poised on the growth curve at a point where inputs from R&D are extremely important. R&D is required in the whole value chain of food processing starting from production of crops, harvesting, handling in transportation, processing, packaging, storage and distribution. For example, there is a need to have a concerted effort for the development of processable varieties of various crops because processing is closely linked with the processability of the crop, R&D in the sector can contribute significantly to value addition, innovative products, efficient processes and new technologies, Shri Sahai said.

Shri Subodh Kant Sahai said that to facilitate industry to invest in research and development, it is proposed in the current budget to extend the benefit of weighted deduction of 150% on an in-house research and development facility specified under section 35(2AB) of the Income-Tax Act, to all businesses engaged in the manufacture or production of an article or thing except a small negative list as specified in the Eleventh Schedule. This incentive would give a boost to R&D activities of all sectors including food processing sector, the Minister said.

VLK/ska