Chandigarh: Seeking to leverage Haryana's strong agricultural base and transform it into a value-added economy, the Nayab Singh Saini-led government has unveiled the state's first dedicated Haryana AgriBusiness and Food Processing Policy-2026, conceived by the Directorate of MSME. The policy aims to establish Haryana as a leading destination for food processing investments through modern infrastructure, cluster-based development and stronger farm-to-market linkages.
Policy Objectives and Targets
Envisaged as a next-generation framework, the policy seeks to attract investments exceeding Rs 5,000 crore and create around 30,000 new jobs over the next five years, besides targeting a 50% increase in food processing exports. The new policy succeeds the 2018 framework, which supported 95 projects, facilitated investments worth Rs 1,250 crore and provided Rs 312 crore as grant-in-aid. With changing consumer preferences and rapid technological advancements, the state has adopted a more comprehensive approach aimed at promoting innovation, sustainability and export-oriented growth.
Amit Aggarwal, secretary industries, who also heads the MSME in Haryana, said, "The way Haryana is emerging as a new destination for diversified and cash crops, this policy will help all the stakeholders and will strengthen the role of the state being the food bowl of the country."
Significance for Haryana's Agriculture
The policy assumes significance as Haryana contributes nearly 15% of India's central foodgrain reserves, while around 80% of its land is under cultivation. The state accounts for over 60% of India's basmati rice exports and is among the country's leading producers of pearl millet, rapeseed and mustard, providing a foundation for expanding value addition in agriculture.
Focus on High-Growth Segments
The government has set out to position Haryana among the country's leading food-processing hubs, with emphasis on emerging and high-growth segments such as nutraceuticals, millet-based products, smart packaging and food-waste utilisation technologies. The policy also aims to strengthen the rural economy and enhance farmers' incomes by reinforcing farm-to-market connectivity.
Inclusive Entrepreneurship
Special provisions have been incorporated to promote inclusive entrepreneurship, with additional support for enterprises promoted by women, Scheduled Castes, Divyang persons and other priority categories.
Alignment with Central Schemes
Aligned with flagship Central schemes such as PM Kisan Sampada Yojana, Operation Greens and PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises, the Haryana AgriBusiness and Food Processing Policy-2026 aims to unlock the state's agricultural potential and establish Haryana as a preferred destination for food processing investments while generating rural employment and boosting export competitiveness.
