In a significant move that could reshape the economic landscape of North Malda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a public rally, pledged to set up a food processing industry in the region. This initiative is aimed at boosting the income of the local farmers, who are renowned for their world-class mangoes and ‘makhana’.
“The mangoes and ‘makhana’ produced by the farmers of Malda have gained global recognition. We are committed to increasing the income of these farmers, and to achieve this, we will establish a food processing industry here,” PM Modi announced to the gathering.
The proposed food processing industry is expected to enhance the value chain of these agricultural products and provide a direct market for the farmers. This would eliminate the role of middlemen, ensuring that the farmers get a fair price for their produce.
However, the announcement was met with demands from the Trinamool Congress (TMC). “TMC demands their share in that also,” PM Modi mentioned, without providing further details on these demands.