Himachal Pradesh Achieves 2nd Runner-Up in PMFME Scheme Performance

Shimla, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: New Delhi: Himachal Pradesh has secured the 2nd Runner-up position in the Medium State Category for its overall performance under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme at the PMFME Conclave 2026, organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on August 24–25.

The Best Performing State Award was presented by Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan. Ramesh Verma, Joint Director, Industries, received the award on behalf of the Department of Industries, Himachal Pradesh. This recognition is significant not only for the state but also for the broader objectives of the PMFME Scheme, which aims to formalize and strengthen the micro food processing sector across India.

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan described the recognition as a proud milestone for Himachal Pradesh and said it reflected the state’s commitment to promoting micro food-processing enterprises, empowering women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs), and strengthening the rural economy through value addition and entrepreneurship. The emphasis on women-led SHGs is particularly relevant in the context of rural development, as it highlights the role of women in driving economic progress and enhancing community resilience.

He said the state government would continue to expand the reach of the PMFME Scheme to ensure that more entrepreneurs and communities benefit from the opportunities created through food processing and entrepreneurship. This commitment is crucial given the challenges faced by the rural economy, including unemployment and underemployment, which the PMFME Scheme aims to address by providing financial support and technical assistance.

Principal Secretary (Industries) M. Sudha noted that the award reflected the dedicated and coordinated efforts of government officers, SHGs, and other stakeholders working to implement the scheme at the grassroots level. This collaborative approach is essential for the success of initiatives like PMFME, as it fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among local stakeholders. Director of Industries Aaditya Negi added that the achievement highlighted the effectiveness of the department’s collaboration with District Industries Centres, banks, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and SHGs, which are vital components of the food processing ecosystem.

As part of the state’s progress under the PMFME Scheme, 2,906 loans have so far been sanctioned in Himachal Pradesh. These loans involve a total project cost of ₹191.73 crore, with subsidy assistance of ₹73.17 crore. The distribution of loans indicates a robust uptake of the scheme among local entrepreneurs, which is a positive sign for the state’s food processing sector.

The scheme has also provided significant support to women-led SHGs. Around 16,083 SHG members have received seed capital amounting to ₹59.29 crore. The assistance has enabled women farmers and SHG members to undertake food-processing activities, strengthen their livelihoods, and move towards greater economic self-reliance. This empowerment of women is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals and fostering inclusive growth in rural areas.

To further strengthen the ecosystem for micro food-processing enterprises, three incubation centres are being established at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSK HPKV), Palampur; Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kukumseri in Lahaul and Spiti; and Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan. These centres are expected to play a pivotal role in nurturing innovation and enhancing the capabilities of micro enterprises.

The proposed incubation centres will support micro enterprises in improving product quality, upgrading processing techniques, and strengthening their production capabilities. By providing access to modern technology and training, these centres can help local entrepreneurs meet market demands and improve competitiveness.

The PMFME Conclave also recognised the contribution of officials involved in implementing the scheme in Himachal Pradesh. Sanjay Kanwar, District Nodal Officer, Shimla, was felicitated with the Best District Nodal Officer Award, while Ravinder Singh, District Resource Person (DRP), received the Best DRP Award. Such recognitions not only motivate individuals but also highlight the importance of dedicated personnel in the successful implementation of government schemes.

Jatin Behal, State Lead Programme Manager, and Aastha Negi, Marketing Manager, were also present at the event, underscoring the collaborative efforts at various levels of administration to ensure the success of the PMFME Scheme.

Himachal Pradesh’s food-processing products also received a platform at the PMFME Bazaar during the conclave. Aaryan Sharma and Shantanu Sharma from Ras Culinary Co. showcased their product ‘Kulut Beverages’ at the event. Such platforms are essential for promoting local products and connecting entrepreneurs with potential markets, thereby facilitating business growth.

The Directorate of Industries, Himachal Pradesh, is the nodal department for the implementation of the PMFME Scheme in the state. It has been working in coordination with District Industries Centres, banks, SHGs, FPOs, District Nodal Officers, District Resource Persons, and other stakeholders. This multi-stakeholder approach is crucial for ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach the intended beneficiaries and that the local food processing sector continues to thrive.

The state’s recognition at the national level comes as its food-processing ecosystem continues to expand, with financial assistance, seed capital, incubation support, and institutional coordination aimed at encouraging rural entrepreneurship and creating new livelihood opportunities. The success of the PMFME Scheme in Himachal Pradesh serves as a model for other states looking to enhance their food processing sectors and promote rural development. As the state moves forward, it will be essential to maintain momentum and ensure that the gains achieved through the scheme translate into lasting benefits for local communities.