Bihar's agri-food sector may reach Rs 1 lakh cr by 2015: Assocham

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Agriculture and food industry in Bihar has the potential to reach Rs.1 lakh crore by 2015, says a study of industry association Assocham.

Bihar's abundant agro-based raw materials available at competitive prices, cattle wealth, water resources and above all a pro-active industrial policy would help achieve the mark, the study says.

"About 15 million tonnes of cereals comprising rice, wheat, maize along with a wide range of fruits and vegetables are produced in Bihar, attracting the global giants and brands in food and beverage segment that are vying to garner prominent share in the state's agro-food processing sector," says the study.

"Rapid development of logistical facilities and infrastructure in areas of processing, warehousing and storage, production and others through effective use of modern technology would further propel the growth and development of agro and food processing sector in Bihar," Assocham secretary general D.S. Rawat said in the report.

"Apart from facilitating import and export, cost efficient logistics management will help Bihar in achieving the much needed competitiveness in both domestic and global markets," said Rawat.

The agriculture and food processing sector in Bihar employs about 80% of the state's total workforce and contributes over half of the total gross state domestic product (GSDP).

Considering the huge scope for large scale employment generation in the food processing sector, there is a need to impart organised training, promote skill development and placement for rural workforce which will benefit both the industry and rural folks, the study said.