Patna: Bihar’s food processing sector received a significant boost during the Food Processing Investor Meet, held as part of the Bihar Business Connect 2024 initiative. The event, hosted at Hotel Taj in Patna, saw participation from major investors across India and abroad, with 14 Letters of Intent (LOIs) signed, representing investments worth Rs. 2,181 crore and the promise of 4,175 new jobs.
Union Food Processing Industries Minister Chirag Paswan, who attended as the chief guest, highlighted Bihar’s untapped potential in the agro-industrial sector. “Bihar will play a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a developed India. With its agricultural richness—producing crops like litchi and makhana—the state offers immense opportunities for investors to grow their businesses while contributing to increasing farmers’ incomes,” said Paswan. He emphasized the growing demand for processed food and assured investors of the central government’s full support.
State Industries Minister Nitish Mishra, the special guest, underscored Bihar’s progress in infrastructure and its commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. “Bihar is on a path of rapid development, with investments worth Rs. 5,500 crore approved in recent months. The state is offering unparalleled incentives, subsidies, and access to export markets, including those of neighboring countries,” he said.
Key projects announced during the meet included:
- A Rs. 700 crore Coca-Cola bottling plant by SLMG Beverages
- A Rs. 160 crore high-tech flour mill by Baba Agro Foods
- A Rs. 50 crore dairy plant by Anand Dairy
- A Rs. 25 crore makhana processing unit by Madhubani Makhana Pvt Ltd
- A Rs. 27 crore biscuit manufacturing facility by Neeramay Foods
- A fully automated high-tech Poha plant by Grus & Grade Pvt Ltd
These investments aim to elevate Bihar’s food processing industry, boost exports, and create local employment.
Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena spoke of the state’s agrarian advantage and ongoing policy reforms. “Bihar’s fertile land and advanced agriculture offer vast potential. With improved infrastructure and industry-friendly policies, we are committed to building an ecosystem that drives growth and generates employment,” he said.
The event also featured interactive sessions that allowed investors to explore collaboration opportunities and understand the state’s sectoral prospects. Development Commissioner Pratyaya Amrit added that Bihar is determined to harness its resources for economic development, stating, “The government is dedicated to facilitating investment and building a vibrant food processing industry.”
The meet concluded with a joint press conference by Chirag Paswan and Nitish Mishra, who fielded questions from the media and reaffirmed their commitment to Bihar’s industrial growth.
