

Mint Explainer | Has the food processing PLI scheme delivered on its promise?
₹10,900 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for the food processing sector has delivered on several fronts, drawing investments and expanding capacity. But questions remain on whether it has actually delivered as expected.With the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) now examining why several PLI schemes have underperformed expectations, Mint explains whether the needle has moved beyond headline investments to sustained value addition.The PLI scheme for the food processing sector is designed to support food manufacturing companies that meet minimum sales thresholds and commit to investments for expanding processing capacity and building global brands.The scheme, being implemented for six years till FY26-27, seeks to create globally competitive food manufacturing champions.
A key focus is on promoting branding and marketing abroad to help domestic companies scale up exports.It also aims to generate employment opportunities, particularly in off-farm sectors, while ensuring better price realisation for agricultural produce. By improving value addition and strengthening the supply chain, it is expected to raise farmer incomes and support the agricultural economy.Its core goals include reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing value addition, generating employment, and boosting exports.
It also sought to strengthen supply chains and promote innovation, particularly in high-potential product categories.Yes. It has drawn interest from major domestic and global food companies.
Several firms have committed investments in expanding processing capacity, modernising facilities, and launching new product lines.The investment performance under the scheme has been highly encouraging. Against a
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