Government Launches Production Linked Incentive Scheme to Boost Millet-Based Products

GG News Bureau

New Delhi, 9th Dec. To promote the use of millets in food products and encourage value addition, the Government of India has launched the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Millet-based Products (PLISMBP) for the period FY 2022-2023 to FY 2026-2027, with an outlay of ₹800 crore. The scheme eliminates the threshold investment requirement, making it more accessible to a wider range of applicants. Companies selected under the scheme must achieve a minimum year-on-year sales growth of 10% over the base year to qualify for incentives. It specifically incentivizes sales of branded Ready-to-Eat and Ready-to-Cook products in consumer packs that contain over 15% millet by weight or volume.

Initially, 30 beneficiaries were enrolled in the scheme, but following the withdrawal of one beneficiary, 29 remain. According to the guidelines, only domestically sourced agricultural products (excluding additives, flavors, and oils) must be used in the preparation of millet-based products. This has led to increased local production and procurement of agricultural produce, benefiting farmers.

The scheme spans five years, with the claims for the first performance year (FY 2022-2023) required to be filed in FY 2023-2024. So far, 19 applicants have submitted incentive claims, with ₹3.917 crore disbursed to eligible applicants.

To enhance the scheme’s implementation, the government has introduced several measures, including the establishment of a user-friendly portal, dedicated groups for prompt issue resolution, and regular clarifications on the scheme guidelines. Additionally, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms have been set up, along with technical assistance provided through dedicated teams to ensure smooth execution. Weekly meetings with applicants are also held to track progress and maintain effective communication.

This information was shared by the Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Shri Ravneet Singh Bhittu, in a written reply to Rajya Sabha.