Ravneet Singh Bittu’s announcement: A Transformative Move for Food Safety in India
In a significant move, Ravneet Singh Bittu, the Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries, announced on March 22, 2025, that 100 new NABL-accredited food testing labs would be established in India under the Pradhan Mantra Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). This ambitious initiative aims to enhance food safety and quality by investing in advanced technology, with a total budget of ₹503.47 crore allocated for 205 projects.
The Importance of Food Testing
Food testing is pivotal in ensuring food safety, as it involves rigorous verification processes before product release. It not only confirms ingredient purity but also assesses functional attributes like shelf life and resistance to spoilage. In India’s food processing sector, this role extends beyond consumer markets; it plays a crucial role in supporting exports, developing countries, and meeting global regulations.
Benefits for Farmers and Producers
Farmers and producers derive numerous benefits from these labs:
- Compliance with Regulations: Ensures products meet international standards.
- Support for Exports: Facilitates better access to markets in developing regions.
- Quality Improvement: Enhances product quality through controlled testing.
- Incomes and Job Creation: Boosts farmers’ incomes and supports skilled labor.
Advanced Testing Technologies
The labs employ cutting-edge technologies such as GC-MS/MS (Gas Chromatography-Silica Mass Spectrometry with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Oxide Scanning Electron Microscopy), HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), and UV Spectrophotometry. These technologies ensure precise, consistent, and efficient testing.
Other Initiatives in Punjab
Punjab’s PMKSY program includes collaborations with leading companies like TMC, Bajjaprelash, and UCMC, providing state-of-the-art facilities. In 2024, the PRIME (Production Linked Incentive) scheme approved ₹126.31 crore worth of projects in Punjab, supported by micro-entrepreneurs and self-help groups.
Conclusion
Ravneet Singh’s announcement marks a significant step forward in enhancing food safety across India. With these labs and initiatives, the sector promises to produce better quality, support global growth, and create jobs for farmers and producers alike. As the industry evolves, such innovations will undoubtedly play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and sustainable future for Indian consumers and producers.