Kunnukara panchayat gets govt nod to set up food processing park
The minister made the announcement while inaugurating Farmers' Day celebrations, organized by Alangad Krishi Bhavan, at Kottappuram KEMH School on Sunday. He said in private sector, LuLu Group will establish a food processing facility on HMT campus in Kalamassery with an investment of around Rs 500 crore. "Once operational, the project will help increase agricultural income by connecting farm produce with modern processing and value-addition facilities.
It will significantly strengthen agricultural economy of the state," Rajeeve said.
According to Rajeeve, agricultural revival efforts in Kalamassery have proved successful, with paddy cultivation reintroduced across more than 1,000 acres. Alongside paddy, farmers in Alangad have diversified into production of jaggery, arrowroot powder and sweet potato powder, which are now reaching local market.
Highlighting govt's push to strengthen farm-to-market linkages, Rajeeve announced that Farm to Home scheme which delivers freshly harvested vegetables and other produce directly to households will begin operations this month with the launch of its first vehicle.
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"Such initiatives ensure that farmers get fair prices while consumers receive safe, fresh produce at their doorstep," he said.
According to officials from Kunnukara panchayat, food processing park is expected to attract private investment and create large-scale employment opportunities. The facility is also expected to enhance storage, processing and distribution capabilities for a variety of crops, giving farmers greater stability against market fluctuations.
The minister said combined impact of the upcoming park and existing agricultural projects would help rebuild confidence in farming and make it a sustainable livelihood in the region. Inauguration ceremony was attended by local elected representatives, govt officials and farmers.
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