Karnataka-based Innova Food Park is set to establish a significant 30-acre agriculture export hub in Sector 24A of Yamuna City, strategically located close to the upcoming Noida International Airport. This facility will be developed as an integrated food park dedicated to processing, testing, grading, and packaging agricultural produce, including fruits, vegetables, and grains, for both domestic distribution and international export.
Project Overview and Strategic Location
The company, which operates a similar facility in Karnataka, aims to strengthen agri-processing and export infrastructure in the region. Officials highlight that this initiative is expected to benefit farmers across several districts of western Uttar Pradesh by enhancing market access and value addition.
Site Inspection and Infrastructure Details
Ravindra Kumar, principal secretary of the state agriculture department, along with company representatives, recently visited Yamuna City to inspect the proposed site. The delegation was shown the plot location and briefed on the area's infrastructure and connectivity, including access to road, rail, and air transport. The proximity to the airport's cargo terminal is a key advantage, enabling direct exports of agricultural produce to international markets.
"The company expressed its willingness to establish its production unit in the YEIDA region, and the proposed land requirement is 30 acres," stated YEIDA CEO R K Singh. This export hub, headquartered in Kolar district, is part of the ‘Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening Project', which receives backing from the World Bank and the Uttar Pradesh government.
Funding and Government Support
The project received state cabinet approval in July last year after a thorough review by the World Bank. Officials confirmed that funding is structured in a 70:30 ratio, with the World Bank contributing 70% and the state government covering the remaining 30%. Additionally, the project will be eligible for incentives under the state's FDI/FCI and Fortune 500 Companies Investment Promotion Policy, 2023.
Incentives and Benefits
These incentives include a 75% front-end land subsidy, full exemption from stamp duty, a 50% capital subsidy linked to the promoter's investment, and a two-year exemption from electricity duty. Officials noted that these incentives will be funded from the state coordination department's budget, further supporting the project's viability and growth.
Integrated Services and Economic Impact
"The facility will serve as an integrated centre for testing, grading, and packaging agricultural and horticultural produce to make it ready for export," explained an official. By providing these services near the airport, the project is poised to strengthen farm-to-market linkages and promote agro-based industries in western Uttar Pradesh, fostering economic development and job creation.
Advanced Infrastructure Features
The proposed food park will include cold chain infrastructure and a gamma radiation unit, which are crucial for extending the shelf life of perishable produce. These facilities will allow farmers to store their produce safely for longer periods and secure better prices by accessing both domestic and international markets, thereby enhancing profitability and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
Overall, this initiative represents a significant step forward in boosting India's agricultural exports and supporting local farmers through advanced infrastructure and strategic partnerships.
