Food processing can transform livelihood opportunities in Ladakh: Paswan

Leh, May 16: Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan on Saturday visited a processing unit in the Nubra belt of Ladakh, where he reviewed efforts aimed at promoting value addition and entrepreneurship in the region.

The minister visited the Gyalson dairy and food processing unit of Jigmat Gyalson.

The Tirith village in the Nubra region has been established under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, officials said.

During the visit, Paswan reviewed the functioning of the unit and interacted with the proprietor regarding the progress of the enterprise and possibilities for further strengthening processing, packaging, branding and market access for local products, they said.

He also interacted with local entrepreneurs engaged in food processing and allied sectors in Nubra, who shared their experiences and highlighted the role of food processing in generating self-employment and livelihood opportunities in the region.

Appreciating the efforts of entrepreneurs working in Ladakh’s challenging terrain, the minister said that value addition to local produce can play a significant role in supporting farmers, youth and women by creating sustainable income and employment opportunities in remote areas.

The visit reflects the government’s continued focus on strengthening micro food processing enterprises, promoting value addition to local produce and supporting the growth of the food processing sector in Ladakh, officials said.