PMFME Initiative Transforms Lives in Varanasi, Empowers Local Entrepreneurs
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Synopsis
The PMFME scheme is significantly transforming lives in Varanasi, empowering rural entrepreneurs by providing essential financial support for food processing businesses.
Key Takeaways
- PMFME scheme enhances rural entrepreneurship.
- Vivek Kumar established the first rice mill in his village.
- Support includes loans of up to Rs 10 lakh.
- Encourages youth to start food-based businesses.
- Over 400-500 individuals have benefitted.
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) Under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation Of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFMPE), a Centrally sponsored scheme, numerous lives in Varanasi have been positively impacted, especially among farmers and rural communities.
This initiative, part of the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, is designed to assist entrepreneurs in the food processing sector by offering loans and subsidies to aid in establishing businesses.
A remarkable success story is that of Vivek Kumar from Chhai village in the Sarnath area, who received a loan of Rs 22 lakh through this scheme. With this financial backing, Kumar set up a rice mill in his village, where he now processes between 20-25 tonnes of rice daily.
Speaking about the scheme's positive impact, he stated, “Thanks to the PMFME scheme, I received a loan when I was contemplating starting my business. This venture was new for my family, and the assistance I received from the scheme, combined with my family's support, was crucial. This is the first rice mill in my village, marking a significant advancement.”
In a similar vein, Rohit Maurya from the Mahmoorganj area also gained from the PMFME scheme, obtaining a loan of Rs 4.5 lakh to launch a mustard oil press.
He recounted, “Initially, I had no plans for this; my focus was on my studies. However, due to my family's financial challenges, I chose to pursue this business. Securing a loan from other sources was tough, but through this government initiative, I learned about the procedure and received the financial support I needed, enabling me to support my family.”
This scheme is not only aiding current entrepreneurs but is also motivating young individuals to initiate food-related businesses, such as bakeries and snack production.
Jyoti Kumar Singh, Senior Horticulture Inspector at Varanasi’s Horticulture Department, noted, “Our mission is to turn farmers and rural residents into entrepreneurs. This scheme is a crucial step toward making India self-sufficient. Any farmer over 18 wishing to establish a food processing business can apply for loans up to Rs 10 lakh. So far, between 400-500 individuals have benefited, with many small farmers launching their businesses and enhancing local production.”
The PMFME scheme is empowering rural entrepreneurs in Varanasi, generating employment opportunities, improving livelihoods, and contributing to the local economy's growth.
As more individuals benefit from this initiative each year, the scheme continues to serve as a crucial support mechanism for India’s rural communities.
Launched on June 29, 2020, the PMFMPE is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI). It aims to tackle the challenges faced by micro enterprises and to harness the potential of groups and cooperatives in facilitating the upgrading and formalization of these enterprises, as stated by the ministry.
