Government of India has taken several significant steps to promote millet-based food products and strengthen the country’s food processing sector. The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is actively supporting the development of millet processing units and strengthening the millet value chain through multiple schemes.
As part of these efforts, ₹793.27 crore has been approved so far under the production-linked incentive framework to promote millet-based products. The initiative aims to expand the production, processing, and marketing of millet foods, creating opportunities for both domestic consumption and exports. The policy push has already resulted in a notable rise in the sales of millet-based products across the country.
The Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry includes a dedicated component for millet-based products with a total outlay of ₹800 crore.
The scheme is designed to encourage the use of millets in food manufacturing while promoting value addition and higher sales of millet-based products in both domestic and international markets.
Out of the total ₹800 crore allocated for this component, ₹793.27 crore has already been approved as incentives for 29 companies. These include eight large enterprises and 21 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the government’s focus on supporting businesses across different scales.
Millet-based products are also being promoted through the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme. Under this program, millet products have been identified as the “One District One Product” (ODOP) in 21 districts across the country, helping boost local entrepreneurship and food processing activities.
In addition, during the International Year of Millets 2023, millet festivals were organized in 30 districts across different states and Union Territories. These events aimed to support micro food processing entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses involved in millet processing.
As of 31 December 2025, a total of 4,612 micro food processing enterprises related to millet processing have been approved under the PMFME scheme across India. These units have received subsidies amounting to ₹91.20 crore.
Millet processing infrastructure is also being strengthened through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana. Under its component for creation and expansion of food processing and preservation capacity (CEFPPC), one food processing unit has been approved in the country, which is expected to enhance processing capacity and value addition in the sector.
The branding and marketing component of the PMFME scheme provides support to farmer producer organizations (FPOs), self-help groups (SHGs), cooperatives, and micro food processing enterprises, including those involved in millet-based products.
Through this initiative, assistance is provided for developing common branding and packaging solutions, ensuring quality control, and maintaining food safety standards. This support also helps millet-based products reach retail markets more effectively.
Sharp Rise in Millet Product Sales and Procurement:
Government initiatives have contributed to a sharp increase in the sales of millet-based products among beneficiaries of the PLI scheme. Sales have risen from around ₹35 crore in 2020–21 to ₹814 crore in 2024–25.
Similarly, millet procurement has also seen substantial growth. The purchase of millets increased from 1,092 metric tonnes in 2020–21 to 16,130 metric tonnes in 2024–25.
The government believes that these initiatives are giving strong momentum to the millet-based food industry. Along with creating better market opportunities for farmers, the push for millet processing is also encouraging healthier food choices and supporting the growth of a sustainable nutrition-focused food ecosystem in India.
FAQs:
1. What are millet-based products?
Millet-based products are food items made from millets such as bajra, jowar, ragi, and foxtail millet, including flour, snacks, ready-to-eat foods, and health products.
2. What is the PLI scheme for millet products?
The Production Linked Incentive scheme provides financial incentives to companies that manufacture and increase sales of millet-based food items.
3. What is the PMFME scheme?
The PMFME scheme supports micro food processing enterprises with subsidies, training, and financial assistance to promote local food businesses.
4. How many millet processing units have been supported?
More than 4,600 micro food processing enterprises related to millet processing have been approved under government schemes.
5. How are platforms like Khetivyapar helping farmers?
Khetivyapar provides updates on government schemes, agricultural markets, and business opportunities in the food processing sector.
