IFC to identify locations for 15 mega food parks

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The state-run Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) has entrusted International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private arm of World Bank, to identify the locations for establishment of 15 mega food parks in the state.

"We are working with International Finance Corporation to identify probable locations for setting up of 15 mega food parks in the state," said an official source.

"We are hopeful to get the report by April 20. After that, we will take steps for preparation of the DPR for the food parks," the official added.

The Odisha Inclusive Growth Partnership Project of IFC helps the state to generate potentially transformative investments in key areas like agribusiness, downstream metal manufacturing, and tourism.

At the recent meeting of the state level coordination committee of mega food parks held under the chairmanship of state chief secretary, G C Pati, it was decided that 20 new agro/food processing parks would be set up in the state.

While Idco was asked to prepare techno-feasible report for 15 mega food parks, Odisha Small Industries Corporation (OSIC) will undertake the task for five parks. Recently, the Union ministry of food processing industries has approved a proposal to set up a sea food park at Deras in Khurda district. This park, to be built by Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) at a cost of Rs 116.26 crore, will enhance the sea food processing capacity in the state by 60,000 tonne per annum. The park will accommodate 41 sea food processing units within its premises. OSIC is also scouting for prospective locations for establishment of five mega food parks.

The state government has come out with its food processing policy that provides a special capital investment subsidy up to Rs 15 crore along with other sops.

In the state, MITS mega food park is in the process of implementation in Rayagada district while the proposal of Huma Mega Coastal Food Park to set up a food processing complex in Ganjam district under the Mega Food Parks Scheme was rejected by the Centre recently.