Chairperson Thigala Anita Haranath Reddy of Rangareddy Zilla Parishad talked about the potential for economic development through establishing micro food processing units with government support. She spoke during a food processing missionary exhibition at Ranga Reddy Collectorate, where women were encouraged to start small-scale enterprises from their kitchens and produce essential kitchen items like chili, turmeric, and masala. The exhibition featured advanced machinery needed to set up micro-enterprises that can receive subsidised credit facilities from banks. The government pledged to provide a 35% subsidised loan to eligible applicants for fostering industry growth.
The Chairperson highlighted the exceptional support given by the Telangana government to women entrepreneurs. Through the Mahila Samakhya groups, women can access loans up to ten lakhs, an initiative unmatched by any other state in India. This financial assistance empowers women to transform their culinary skills into thriving business ventures.
The District Additional Collector Prateek Jain acknowledged India’s agricultural heritage and emphasised the economic potential for farmers in producing agro-based products. Space has been allocated at the Collectorate for women’s association groups to sell vegetables, fruits, Pochampally handloom clothes, and small grains to facilitate the marketing of such products. This initiative aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable economic growth.
Rajeshwar Reddy, the District Industries Officer, expressed optimism about the opportunities for establishing food processing units in the district. By leveraging the government’s support and availing of subsidised loans, aspiring entrepreneurs can establish industries that will create employment opportunities for many. He emphasises that both the central and state governments actively support promoting food products through various schemes.
