On December 9, Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Food Processing, Shobha Karandlaje, conveyed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to double the income of farmers and fishermen by promoting the food processing sector. Speaking to reporters in Udupi before participating in the Vikasit Bharat Yatra at Kemmannu and Kallianapura Gram Panchayats, Ms. Karandlaje emphasized the government's commitment to improving the lifestyle of the farming community through this new initiative.

Highlighting the strategy, the Minister underscored the importance of exporting processed food with value addition to achieve the goal of doubling the income of farming communities. To facilitate this, the Prime Minister has established a dedicated ministry, allocating an initial grant of ₹800 crore. This initiative is not only expected to boost income but also create additional employment opportunities.

Ms. Karandlaje further shared that a research institute has been established in Delhi to support startups in the food processing sector. Additionally, food processing parks are in the process of being established nationwide. Emphasizing collaboration, she stressed the need for the Agriculture Ministry and Food Processing Ministry to work together for the welfare of farmers. She noted the advantage of holding both portfolios simultaneously, a move that is now realized and addressing a long-standing discussion.

Acknowledging the time constraints due to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in about two months, the Minister expressed her commitment to prioritizing the implementation of plans. She pledged to focus extensively on food processing industries, aiming to process food, both marine and agricultural, wherever feasible.