How are Bihar’s Youth Becoming Entrepreneurs Through the PMFME Scheme?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Discover how Bihar's young entrepreneurs are transforming their lives and communities through the PMFME scheme. This initiative is not just about self-reliance; it's about creating jobs and fostering local economies, as exemplified by Arun Kushwaha's inspiring journey.
Key Takeaways
- The PMFME scheme promotes entrepreneurship among Bihar’s youth.
- Local entrepreneurs are generating significant employment opportunities.
- Arun Kushwaha’s story exemplifies the scheme’s success.
- The initiative supports financial independence and community upliftment.
- It aims to formalize unorganized food processing units.
Motihari (Bihar), July 26 (NationPress) The economic environment in Bihar is witnessing a significant shift, as the youth are no longer feeling the need to migrate for job opportunities. This positive change is largely attributed to the Prime Minister’s Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, which empowers young people to become self-sufficient while also creating job opportunities for others.
In the Motihari district of East Champaran, young entrepreneurs are establishing small-scale food processing businesses by taking full advantage of the PMFME initiative. These ventures not only contribute to their financial independence but also play a crucial role in uplifting their communities by generating essential employment.
One particularly inspiring case is that of Arun Kushwaha, a Motihari local. Previously a struggling farmer, Arun's life changed dramatically when he discovered the PMFME scheme. With the assistance of the State Bank of India (SBI), he acquired a loan under the scheme and launched a dairy farm in his village.
Today, Arun’s business processes and packages milk, curd, cheese, and lassi, distributing these products to nearby markets. His monthly earnings range from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh, and he has successfully created jobs for nearly 30 locals who assist in packaging, logistics, and marketing.
“I was on the verge of migrating for work, as farming wasn’t enough to support my family. But PMFME has been a game changer. Now, I’m not just looking for a job – I’m providing jobs,” Arun shared with IANS.
His success story has motivated others in the village, particularly those who had previously sought work outside of Bihar. Many have returned home to find rewarding employment opportunities at Arun’s dairy farm. Families are now living together again, enjoying a stable income within their own community.
Arun’s experience highlights the significant impact of the PMFME scheme, which was launched on June 29, 2020, by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. This centrally sponsored initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness and formalization of existing micro-enterprises in the unorganized food processing sector through financial support and technical guidance.
The scheme also aims to empower Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Producer Cooperatives throughout their value chains. Under this initiative, 2 lakh micro food processing units are set to receive direct assistance via credit-linked subsidies, as well as support for common infrastructure and institutional development.
Point of View
The PMFME scheme embodies a significant step toward economic self-sufficiency in Bihar. By empowering local youth to establish their enterprises, it not only curbs migration but also fosters community development. This initiative aligns with national goals of enhancing livelihoods and supporting local economies.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PMFME scheme?
The PMFME scheme, launched on June 29, 2020, aims to formalize and enhance the competitiveness of micro food processing enterprises, providing financial and technical support to empower local entrepreneurs.
How does the PMFME scheme benefit local communities?
By enabling youth to start their own businesses, the PMFME scheme creates jobs, promotes self-sufficiency, and enhances the local economy, keeping families together and reducing migration.
