Policies and Initiatives: Tamil Nadu's Food Processing Policy In Focus

Tamil Nadu's Food Processing Policy has helped the state in value addition to its agricultural products.

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The state is India's 10th largest state with an area of 1,30,058 sq. Kms. As per the 2011 census, the state had a population of 72 million. It has a coastline of 1076 km. The state's climatic conditions are tropical and subtropical. The state hosts 7 Agroclimatic Zones, which are suitable for the cultivation of various crops. Due to its proximity to the oceans, Tamil Nadu is well connected to Major National and International Trade Centres through its 4 major ports. It also hosts 4 International Airports, 2 lakh Kms of road network, and vast rail connectivity. The logistics and infrastructure support of the state make it an ideal state for hosting food processing industries.

Analysing Tamil Nadu's Food Processing Industries' Potential

Tamil Nadu is a leading player in the agro-processing sector. It hosts about 24,000 food processing firms registered as Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs). It also hosts about 1,100 medium and large units. The State contributes about 7% of India's food processing output. The state enjoys a competitive advantage in terms of abundant agro resources and growing demand potential. It also has excellent access to the National and Export markets.

Agriculture Sector: The Raw Material Supplier

The agriculture and allied activities provide sustenance to about 40 per cent of Tamil Nadu's population. It also contributes about 11.6 percent of Tamil Nadu’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Tamil Nadu is one of the largest producers of Banana, Tapioca, and Cloves. The state is also one of the leading producers of Maize, Tamarind, Grapes, Turmeric, and Pepper in the country.

Dairy & Animal Husbandry