FOOD PROCESSING SECTOR AND VIKSIT BHARAT 2047: GROWTH, VISION, AND STRATEGIC CHALLENGES

Abstract

The food processing sector in India has emerged as a key driver of economic growth, contributing 8.80% to manufacturing GVA and 8.39% to agricultural GVA as of 2024-25. With a market size of 26.41 lakh crore (US$307 billion) in 2023, projected to reach 60.22 lakh crore (US$700 billion) by 2030, the sector plays a vital role in employment, exports, and industrial investment. This study explores the sector’s current contribution to the Indian economy, its projected Gross Value Added (GVA) target of 7.2% by 2047 under the Viksit Bharat vision, and the strategic roadmap required to achieve this transformation. It also investigates the challenges facing the industry, including low processing levels, fragmented supply chains, regulatory complexity, and workforce limitations. Using secondary data from government reports and industry publications, the study highlights the importance of infrastructure development, technology adoption, and policy support in unlocking the sector’s full potential. The findings underscore the sector’s role in promoting inclusive growth, food security, and sustainable development.