SAPLING (South Asian Policy Leadership for Improved Nutrition and Growth) is a regional platform led by the World Bank Group (WBG) to accelerate the transformation of resilient, nutrition-focused food systems across South Asia.
- Aligned with the WBG’s AgriConnect initiative, SAPLING supports greater private sector participation in food system value chains and helps unlock investment for sustainable growth.
- AgriConnect aims to transform smallholder farming, create jobs, and strengthen global food security.
Food Processing Sector in India
- Status: Market size projected to reach US$ 2.15 trillion by 2047; contributes ~7.9% to manufacturing GVA, ~8% to agriculture GVA, accounts for 20.4% of agri-exports, has attracted US$ 15.86 billion FDI, and employs ~7 million workers.
- Government Initiatives
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY): Develops farm-to-retail infrastructure through Mega Food Parks, Cold Chains and Agro-Processing Clusters.
- PMKSY cold-chain projects reduced wastage by up to 70% in fisheries and 85% in dairy.
- Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLISFPI): ₹10,900 crore scheme to boost processed food production and global food brands.
- PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME): Supports micro food-processing enterprises under 'Vocal for Local' and ‘One District One Product (ODOP)’ through credit-linked subsidies.
- Policy Support: 100% FDI under automatic route, PSL benefits, and tax incentives for cold-chain infrastructure.
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY): Develops farm-to-retail infrastructure through Mega Food Parks, Cold Chains and Agro-Processing Clusters.
