Chirag Paswan inaugurated an exhibition in Leh under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme to promote products developed by beneficiaries of the scheme and strengthen opportunities for micro food processing enterprises in Ladakh.
Organized jointly by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and the Department of Industries and Commerce of the UT Administration of Ladakh, the exhibition at the DC Office Complex showcased locally produced food products while encouraging entrepreneurship, market connectivity, and awareness about the scheme.
During his visit, Paswan interacted with exhibitors and beneficiaries, listened to their experiences, and encouraged them to continue expanding their businesses.
While chairing a review meeting, the Minister highlighted the significant potential of Ladakh’s food processing sector and stressed the need for focused efforts to bring the region into the mainstream of India’s food processing industry.
He noted that earlier agricultural development in the country mainly focused on production rather than value addition, but said that since 2014 the government has worked towards strengthening value creation in the sector.
Referring to Ladakh’s unique products such as sea buckthorn and apricot, Paswan said these products hold strong global market potential if supported with proper investment and promotion. He also encouraged stakeholders to participate in initiatives such as World Food India to explore wider business opportunities and industry collaboration.
The Minister further emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure, mentioning that irradiation units are being established across the country through cooperation between central and state governments to improve food preservation and reduce supply chain challenges.
He also underlined the need for more frequent buyer-seller meets to strengthen market access for producers. During the meeting, officials from Ladakh’s Industries and Commerce Department presented an overview of the region’s food processing sector and ongoing development initiatives.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and the UT Administration of Ladakh were also present at the event.