Intro:
• Agro-based food processing industries convert perishable agricultural produce into value-added products.
• NW India—esp. Punjab, Haryana, Western UP—is a major hub.
1. Raw Material Availability:
• High production of wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits & vegetables.
• Punjab & Haryana: rice & wheat surplus states (Green Revolution zone).
• UP: major sugarcane & potato producer.
2. Irrigation & Agriculture Infrastructure:
• Extensive canal network, groundwater irrigation (e.g., Indira Gandhi Canal).
• High crop yields, multiple cropping.
3. Transport & Connectivity:
• Dense road & rail network.
• Proximity to Delhi NCR—large urban consumption center.
• Access to markets & export hubs.
4. Government Support:
• MSP regime ensures stable input supply.
• Mega Food Parks: e.g., Ludhiana, Sonepat.
• Subsidies under PM Kisan SAMPADA Yojana.
5. Skilled Labour & Entrepreneurial Culture:
• Rural youth skilled in agro-processing.
• Cooperative models (e.g., sugar cooperatives in UP).
Conclusion:
• Agro-climatic suitability, infrastructure, policy support, and market access make NW India a natural zone for agro-based food processing industries.
