Advisor Ladakh Dr Pawan Kotwal convened meeting of State Level Approval Committee (SLAC) for the approval of proposal for Branding & Marketing support under (PMFME) scheme

Leh, August 09: Advisor Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, chaired a meeting of the State Level Approval Committee (SLAC) at the Civil Secretariat, Leh, to review and approve proposals for Branding & Marketing support under the Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme.

The meeting commenced with a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation by the Department of Industries and Commerce, highlighting the PMFME scheme. Launched in June 2020, this centrally sponsored initiative by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) aims to provide subsidies and financial assistance to both new and existing Micro Food Processing units. The scheme extends its benefits to individual enterprises, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.

A detailed project report was presented by the Deputy Registrar, Cooperative, Leh, on behalf of Bhami Dunya Consumer Cooperative, Leh, to the General Manager, District Industries Centre, Leh. The proposal seeks support under the PMFME scheme for the development of a common brand named “Wonder Berry” to promote Seabuckthorn-based products—identified by MoFPI as the One District One Product (ODOP) for Leh district. The products include Seabuckthorn Juice, Squash, Dry Berry, Oil, Herbal Tea, Puree, and more.

The Advisor emphasized the production and processing of Seabuckthorn in Ladakh, aiming to leverage the potential of this unique and nutritious fruit, which thrives in the cold desert regions of Ladakh. He stated that the initiative seeks to empower local communities by formalizing and enhancing Micro Food Processing Enterprises, ensuring that the commercial potential of Seabuckthorn is fully realized. “Traditionally used for its health benefits, Seabuckthorn’s economic possibilities remain largely untapped, and the PMFME scheme is set to transform this potential into a viable economic reality”’ said Dr Kotwal.

He further stressed the importance of increasing Seabuckthorn production in Ladakh through sustainable practices to secure long-term ecological and economic benefits for the region. He expressed that a focus on sustainability would help preserve Ladakh’s unique biodiversity, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the region’s natural resources.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Principal Secretary of the Industries and Commerce Department,Sanjeev Kirwar; Under Secretary of Agriculture, Horticulture, and Floriculture,Amir Suhail; Commissioner  Secretary of Technical Education and Skill Development Department,Padma Angmo;Director of Industries and Commerce,Sh.Mohammad Nazir sheikh, Ladakh; Representatives of Cooperative ,Skarma Tashi,Gonbo Angchuk,Mohammad Abuzar; Tsering Morup(AGM) from UTLBC;Beronica Borua,Indusrties Department,SPMU,PMFME