Q. Discuss the factors for the localisation of agro-based food processing industries of North-West India. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2019
Keywords of the Question
- Factors
- Localisation of agro-based food processing industries
- North-West India
Directive Word
Discuss – Essentially this is a written debate where you are using your skill at reasoning, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument, or point out the advantages and disadvantages of a given context. Remember to arrive at a conclusion
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Define agro-based food processing industries.
- Mention the significance of North-West India in this context.
Body
- Geographical Factors:
- Climate suitability
- Soil fertility
- Economic Factors:
- Availability of raw materials
- Market access
- Infrastructure:
- Transportation facilities
- Storage and warehousing
- Government Policies:
- Subsidies and incentives
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
- Human Resources:
- Skilled labor availability
- Traditional knowledge
Conclusion
- Summarize the key factors.
- Highlight the overall impact on regional development.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Agro-based food processing industries involve the transformation of raw agricultural products into consumable food items. North-West India, comprising states like Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, is a significant hub for these industries due to various favorable factors.
Body
Geographical Factors
- Climate Suitability: The region’s climate is conducive to the cultivation of a variety of crops such as wheat, rice, and sugarcane. For instance, Punjab’s climate supports the growth of high-yield wheat and rice, which are essential for food processing industries.
- Soil Fertility: The alluvial soil in this region is highly fertile, supporting the growth of diverse crops. This ensures a steady supply of raw materials for the industries. For example, the fertile plains of Haryana are ideal for growing sugarcane, which supports the sugar processing industry.
Economic Factors
- Availability of Raw Materials: The region is a major agricultural producer, ensuring a constant supply of raw materials. Punjab and Haryana are known as the “Granaries of India” due to their high production of wheat and rice.
- Market Access: Proximity to large urban markets like Delhi and Chandigarh provides easy access to consumers, reducing transportation costs and ensuring fresh delivery of processed foods.
Infrastructure
- Transportation Facilities: Well-developed road and rail networks facilitate the easy movement of raw materials to processing units and finished products to markets. The National Highway network and the extensive railway system in Punjab and Haryana are prime examples.
- Storage and Warehousing: Adequate storage facilities, including cold storage, help in preserving perishable goods. For instance, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has numerous warehouses in this region to store grains.
Government Policies
- Subsidies and Incentives: The government provides various subsidies and incentives to promote agro-based industries. For example, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana offers financial assistance for setting up food processing units.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs): SEZs in states like Punjab and Haryana offer tax benefits and improved infrastructure, attracting investment in food processing industries.
Human Resources
- Skilled Labor Availability: The region has a large pool of skilled and semi-skilled labor, essential for the efficient operation of food processing units. Agricultural universities in Punjab and Haryana produce graduates with expertise in food technology.
- Traditional Knowledge: The local population has traditional knowledge of agricultural practices, which can be leveraged in food processing. For instance, traditional methods of dairy farming in Punjab support the dairy processing industry.
Conclusion
In summary, the localization of agro-based food processing industries in North-West India is driven by a combination of geographical, economic, infrastructural, policy, and human resource factors. These industries not only contribute to the regional economy but also play a crucial role in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Mind Map
