The Prime Minister’s Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, introduced by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, is bringing a significant change to local food processing businesses in Sheikhpura, Bihar. This initiative by the central government aims to organize and empower food processing industries, creating sustainable livelihoods in both rural and urban areas across the state.
In Sheikhpura, stories like that of Bahadur Ravidas from Pachna village and Soobe Sav from Sheikhpura city’s Station Road exemplify the impact of this scheme. Bahadur, who started as a labourer and later worked in a bakery in Punjab, returned home to Sheikhpura with a dream of establishing his own business. Through the PMFME scheme, he received financial aid, technical support, and business training, leading to the successful launch of his cake-making venture.
Similarly, Soobe Sav, who transitioned from being a street vendor selling coconuts to a successful baker, found support through the PMFME scheme. After working in a bakery in Jharkhand, Soobe returned to Sheikhpura and set up his bakery unit with government assistance. Today, both Bahadur and Soobe credit the PMFME scheme for not only providing employment opportunities but also for restoring their dignity and self-respect.
