4.
Pink Revolution
A Historic Policy Shift, Unprecedented In India’s History
India is known all over the world as a peace loving country. It is a historical fact that India never attacked any other country, believing always in the philosophy of peaceful coexistence.
It is also probably the only country that provides for animal care in its constitution. Animals are mentioned as something more than just food. Each citizen is enjoined to care for and preserve nature and its creatures.
Article 48, The Directive Principles of State Policy states, “The state shall, in particular, take steps for … prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle.”
India has been a country of farmers and shepherds, lovingly looking after their animals. India was never a country of butchers and murderers. Bloodbath is foreign to Indian culture.
Compassion and non-violence formed the core belief of all the religions that originated in this great land.
Traditional Indian or Vedic way of life teaches respect for all life forms. In their view, all living beings are born of mother nature and have an equal right to life. Indeed, in Vedic conception, animals are treated like innocent children and are meant to be given all protection.
Srimad Bhagavatam, the foremost of all Vedic texts states, “One should treat animals such as deer, camels, asses, monkeys, mice, snakes, birds and flies exactly like one’s own son. How little difference there actually is between children and these innocent animals.” (SB 7.14.9)
It is also probably the only country that provides for animal care in its constitution. Animals are mentioned as something more than just food. Each citizen is enjoined to care for and preserve nature and its creatures.
Article 48, The Directive Principles of State Policy states, “The state shall, in particular, take steps for … prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle.”
India has been a country of farmers and shepherds, lovingly looking after their animals. India was never a country of butchers and murderers. Bloodbath is foreign to Indian culture.
Compassion and non-violence formed the core belief of all the religions that originated in this great land.
Traditional Indian or Vedic way of life teaches respect for all life forms. In their view, all living beings are born of mother nature and have an equal right to life. Indeed, in Vedic conception, animals are treated like innocent children and are meant to be given all protection.
Srimad Bhagavatam, the foremost of all Vedic texts states, “One should treat animals such as deer, camels, asses, monkeys, mice, snakes, birds and flies exactly like one’s own son. How little difference there actually is between children and these innocent animals.” (SB 7.14.9)
And the rascal, blind leaders are leading everyone to hell. They are simply misleaders. People do not like to accept any authority. Still, they have accepted these rascals as leaders and are being misled. In this way both the rascal leaders and their unfortunate followers remain bound up by the stringent laws of material nature.
~Srila Prabhupada (Beyond the Limits of the Body)
National Policy Takes A U-turn
10 years ago it marked a significant moment in Indian history when Indian government decided to accord highest priority to meat consumption and export, making it ‘truly a national initiative’.
Website of Ministry of Food Processing Industries states:
There is an urgent need to frame a right strategy for the development of meat and poultry production in the country. This will certainly bring prosperity to millions of our rural citizens and create employment in rural India. Having achieved the Green Revolution, the White Revolution and the Blue Revolution, it is time to ask the question “can the Pink Revolution be far behind?” Certainly this will require large investment in infrastructure, mainly in cold storages, and modern meat processing plants. Without a strong and dependable cold chain, a vital sector like meat industry, which is based mostly on perishable products, cannot survive and grow.
(http://mofpi.nic.in/ContentPage.aspx?CategoryId=173)
Also, below we reproduce excerpts from the report of the working group on food processing industries for 12th five year plan by Government of India.
Website of Ministry of Food Processing Industries states:
There is an urgent need to frame a right strategy for the development of meat and poultry production in the country. This will certainly bring prosperity to millions of our rural citizens and create employment in rural India. Having achieved the Green Revolution, the White Revolution and the Blue Revolution, it is time to ask the question “can the Pink Revolution be far behind?” Certainly this will require large investment in infrastructure, mainly in cold storages, and modern meat processing plants. Without a strong and dependable cold chain, a vital sector like meat industry, which is based mostly on perishable products, cannot survive and grow.
(http://mofpi.nic.in/ContentPage.aspx?CategoryId=173)
Also, below we reproduce excerpts from the report of the working group on food processing industries for 12th five year plan by Government of India.
These so-called civilized people -- what is the difference between these rascals and vultures? The vultures also enjoy killing and then eating the dead body. "Make it dead and then enjoy" -- people have become vultures. And their civilization is a vulture civilization. Animal-eaters -- they're like jackals, vultures, dogs. Flesh is not proper food for human beings. Here in the Vedic culture is civilized food, human food: milk, fruit, vegetables, nuts, grains. Let them learn it. Uncivilized rogues, vultures, raksasas [demons] -- and they're leaders.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Journey of Self Discover 6.5: Slaughterhouse Civilization)
Ministry of Food Processing Industries
Excerpts From Report of the Working Group on Food Processing Industries For 12th Five Year Plan, Government of India
11th Plan (2007-2012)
The total plan outlay of the Ministry rose from 650 crore during the 10th Plan to 4,031 crore during the 11th Plan.
The financial projections for the 12th Plan have to be looked at from the perspective of making growth of food processing sector truly a national goal and reflect both the potential of the sector and demand from the stakeholders.
The financial projections for the 12th Plan have to be looked at from the perspective of making growth of food processing sector truly a national goal and reflect both the potential of the sector and demand from the stakeholders.
Likely Impact
The proposed financial outlay of around 15,300 crore would have an aggregate component of around 10,300 crore towards providing part capital assistance to food processing projects. Based on design of the Schemes and experience so far, this may be able to attract a total investment of around 35,000 crore in food processing sector. Considering an Incremental Capital Output ratio of around 4 for Indian Economy, though it may be less for food processing sector, an additional investment of 35,000 crore may lead to an additional output of 8,750 crore.
The foolish leaders of a godless civilization try to devise various plans to bring about peace and prosperity in the godless world under a patent trademark of materialism, and because such attempts are illusory only, the people elect incompetent, blind leaders, one after another, who are incapable of offering solutions. If we want at all to end this anomaly of a godless civilization, we must follow the principles of revealed scriptures like the Srimad-Bhagavatam and follow the instruction of a person like Sri Sukadeva Gosvami who has no attraction for material gain.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 2.2.6)
The Mid-Term Appraisal Report of the 11th Five Year Plan has also recommended accelerating agricultural growth through high value segment (horticulture, livestock and fisheries). To achieve this, it has suggested, inter-alia, the following:
nijagrahaujasa virah
kalim digvijaye kvacit
nrpa-linga-dharam sudram
ghnantam go-mithunam pada
Once, when Maharaja Pariksit was on his way to conquer the world, he saw the master of Kali-yuga, who was lower than a sudra, disguised as a king and hurting the legs of a cow and bull. The King at once caught hold of him to deal sufficient punishment.
The king cannot tolerate insults to the most important animal, the cow...Human civilization means to advance the cause of brahminical culture, and to maintain it, cow protection is essential. There is a miracle in milk, for it contains all the necessary vitamins to sustain human physiological conditions for higher achievements. Brahminical culture can advance only when man is educated to develop the quality of goodness, and for this there is a prime necessity of food prepared with milk, fruits and grains. Maharaja Pariksit was astonished to see that a black sudra, dressed like a ruler, was mistreating a cow, the most important animal in human society.
The age of Kali means mismanagement and quarrel. And the root cause of all mismanagement and quarrel is that worthless men with the modes of lower-class men, who have no higher ambition in life, come to the helm of the state management. Such men at the post of a king are sure to first hurt the cow and the brahminical culture, thereby pushing all society towards hell. Maharaja Pariksit, trained as he was, got the scent of this root cause of all quarrel in the world. Thus he wanted to stop it in the very beginning.
~ Srila Prabhuapda (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.16.4)
i. To encourage “clustering” of farmers in groups through NGOs, be it in the form of “cooperatives”, farmer clubs, or contract farming, etc.
ii. To encourage organized logistics players, processors and modern retailers (both domestic and foreign) by freeing them from restrictions, and supporting them to link directly with clusters of farmers.
This is a matter of great satisfaction for the Ministry of Food Processing Industries that the above suggestions have already been the guiding principles of its 11th Five Year Plan.
The Scheme for Modernization of Abattoirs was the third important component of the Infrastructure Development Scheme of the Ministry. This Scheme aimed at creating infrastructure for hygienic and more humane slaughtering of animals leading to availability of hygienic meat to the domestic consumers as well as exports. This Scheme also has requisite flexibility for spirit of Public-Private Partnership and has generated good response from the States.
The 11th Plan approach of the Ministry also gave special stress on creation of institutional structures to guide the growth of the sector in the desired direction. The establishment of National Meat and Poultry Processing Board and Indian Grape Processing Board may be considered as significant milestones during this period. The Indian Institute of Crop Processing Technology was also upgraded to a National Centre of Excellence in the country. Above all, a National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship & Management (NIFTEM) has been established by the Ministry as a Centre of Excellence to cater to all aspects of technology, entrepreneurship, research, skill development and management for the sector at the apex level.
ii. To encourage organized logistics players, processors and modern retailers (both domestic and foreign) by freeing them from restrictions, and supporting them to link directly with clusters of farmers.
This is a matter of great satisfaction for the Ministry of Food Processing Industries that the above suggestions have already been the guiding principles of its 11th Five Year Plan.
The Scheme for Modernization of Abattoirs was the third important component of the Infrastructure Development Scheme of the Ministry. This Scheme aimed at creating infrastructure for hygienic and more humane slaughtering of animals leading to availability of hygienic meat to the domestic consumers as well as exports. This Scheme also has requisite flexibility for spirit of Public-Private Partnership and has generated good response from the States.
The 11th Plan approach of the Ministry also gave special stress on creation of institutional structures to guide the growth of the sector in the desired direction. The establishment of National Meat and Poultry Processing Board and Indian Grape Processing Board may be considered as significant milestones during this period. The Indian Institute of Crop Processing Technology was also upgraded to a National Centre of Excellence in the country. Above all, a National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship & Management (NIFTEM) has been established by the Ministry as a Centre of Excellence to cater to all aspects of technology, entrepreneurship, research, skill development and management for the sector at the apex level.
Saunaka Rsi inquired: Why did Maharaja Pariksit simply punish him, since he was the lowest of the sudras, having dressed as a king and having struck a cow on the leg?
Saunaka and the rsis were astonished to hear that the pious Maharaja Pariksit simply punished the culprit and did not kill him. This suggests that a pious king like Maharaja Pariksit should have at once killed an offender who wanted to cheat the public by dressing like a king and at the same time daring to insult the purest of the animals, a cow. The rsis in those days, however, could not even imagine that in the advanced days of the age of Kali the lowest of the sudras will be elected as administrators and will open organized slaughterhouses for killing cows.
~ Srila Prabhuapda (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.16.5)
Various studies suggest that the industry is grappling with the shortage of refrigeration mechanics, electricians and fitters and food safety professionals etc. There are a few institutions only that provide qualified manpower for food processing sector. Hence, one of the major emphasis of 12th Plan would be on mapping the skill gaps and identify priority areas for human resource development for increasing the productivity of workers/units in the sector.
iii. Scheme for Cold Chain, Value Addition and Preservation Infrastructure
Capital grant of 50% / 75% of the project cost (plant and machinery and technical civil work only) in general areas/difficult areas subject to a maximum of 10 crore.
Cold chain network in India is practically non-existent with stand alone cold storage facilities passing of as cold chain network. Most of the cold stores are single chambered, single product facilities which mainly stock potato and potato seed for about 6 months a year and lie idle during the rest of the year. The entrepreneurs, setting up cold chain projects, have to grapple with the procurement issues as well which lead to low capacity utilization.
iii. Scheme for Cold Chain, Value Addition and Preservation Infrastructure
Capital grant of 50% / 75% of the project cost (plant and machinery and technical civil work only) in general areas/difficult areas subject to a maximum of 10 crore.
Cold chain network in India is practically non-existent with stand alone cold storage facilities passing of as cold chain network. Most of the cold stores are single chambered, single product facilities which mainly stock potato and potato seed for about 6 months a year and lie idle during the rest of the year. The entrepreneurs, setting up cold chain projects, have to grapple with the procurement issues as well which lead to low capacity utilization.
People in general are misled by blind leaders. The leaders of human society -- the politicians, philosophers and scientists -- are blind because they are not God conscious. According to Bhagavad-gita, because they are bereft of all factual knowledge due to their atheistic way of life, they are actually sinful rascals and are the lowest among men.
When such atheists become leaders of society, the entire atmosphere is surcharged with nescience.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Nectar of Instruction: verse 7)
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been fully aware of the need for comprehensive cold chain solutions for food processors. The Scheme for Integrated Cold Chain, Value Addition and Preservation Infrastructure was therefore launched during 11th Plan to provide integrated cold chain and preservation facilities without any break, from the farm gate to the consumer.
The Scheme is designed to link farms to value addition facilities through an efficient supply chain and includes sectors such as dairy, meat, poultry and fishery too in addition to fruits and vegetables
Out of 164 proposals, 39 cold chain projects have been approved initially which met all eligibility parameters within stipulated timeline. The approved proposals envisage a total investment of about 850 Crore which would be creating an additional aggregate cold chain capacity of about 2.5 lakh MT in the Country. Most of these projects are under implementation and a significant part of them may be completed by end of this year.
Considering very encouraging response from industry, the Ministry has decided to cover more cold chain projects under the Scheme during 11th Plan and has already received in principle approval from the Planning Commission in this regard.
It is being proposed to support 120 more integrated cold chain projects during 12th Plan, out of which 20 projects would be of irradiation facilities.
The Scheme is designed to link farms to value addition facilities through an efficient supply chain and includes sectors such as dairy, meat, poultry and fishery too in addition to fruits and vegetables
Out of 164 proposals, 39 cold chain projects have been approved initially which met all eligibility parameters within stipulated timeline. The approved proposals envisage a total investment of about 850 Crore which would be creating an additional aggregate cold chain capacity of about 2.5 lakh MT in the Country. Most of these projects are under implementation and a significant part of them may be completed by end of this year.
Considering very encouraging response from industry, the Ministry has decided to cover more cold chain projects under the Scheme during 11th Plan and has already received in principle approval from the Planning Commission in this regard.
It is being proposed to support 120 more integrated cold chain projects during 12th Plan, out of which 20 projects would be of irradiation facilities.
iv. Scheme for Modernization of Abattoirs
Capital grant of 50% / 75% of the project cost (Plant machinery and technical, civil work only) in general areas/difficult areas subject to a maximum of 15 crore.
Value addition in meat sector has been almost non-existent except in the case of cattle meat processing which is primarily meant for the export market. Livestock markets and abattoirs are mostly in unorganised sector. For the meat sector to be more vibrant, profitable, export oriented and provider of safe meat, it is necessary that a perceptible shift from unorganized to organized sector takes place.
Value addition in meat sector has been almost non-existent except in the case of cattle meat processing which is primarily meant for the export market. Livestock markets and abattoirs are mostly in unorganised sector. For the meat sector to be more vibrant, profitable, export oriented and provider of safe meat, it is necessary that a perceptible shift from unorganized to organized sector takes place.
It is a grossest type of sin to eat meat supplied by organized slaughterhouses which are ghastly places for breeding all kinds of material afflictions to society, country and the people in general. The material world is itself a place always full of anxieties, and by encouraging animal slaughter the whole atmosphere becomes polluted more and more by war, pestilence, famine and many other unwanted calamities.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.7.37)
Mid-Term Appraisal of 11th Five Year Plan
The rise in per capita income in the Country has witnessed an increased demand for meat products in recent years. It is to be noted that meat consumption remains a “luxury” for majority of non-vegetarian population in India. However, as the purchasing power of the people rise, there has been a perceptible shift towards meat and poultry consumption, which is also being reflected in food inflation figures. The poultry industry has though risen to this challenge and a number of organized players have entered this segment to take optimum advantage of this increasing demand. But the domestic supply chain of the poultry sector also leaves much to be desired.
O chaste one, the king's good name, duration of life and good rebirth vanish when all kinds of living beings are terrified by miscreants in his kingdom. It is certainly the prime duty of the king to subdue first the sufferings of those who suffer. Therefore I must kill this most wretched man because he is violent against other living beings.
When there is some disturbance caused by wild animals in a village or town, the police or others take action to kill them. Similarly, it is the duty of the government to kill at once all bad social elements such as thieves, dacoits and murderers. The same punishment is also due to animal-killers because the animals of the state are also the praja. Praja means one who has taken birth in the state, and this includes both men and animals. Any living being who takes birth in a state has the primary right to live under the protection of the king. The jungle animals are also subject to the king, and they also have a right to live. So what to speak of domestic animals like the cows and bulls.
By the law of the Supreme Lord, all living beings, in whatever shape they may be, are the sons of the Lord, and no one has any right to kill another animal, unless it is so ordered by the codes of natural law. The tiger can kill a lower animal for his subsistence, but a man cannot kill an animal for his subsistence. That is the law of God, who has created the law that a living being subsists by eating another living being. Thus the vegetarians are also living by eating other living beings. Therefore, the law is that one should live only by eating specific living beings, as ordained by the law of God. The Isopanisad directs that one should live by the direction of the Lord and not at one's sweet will. A man can subsist on varieties of grains, fruits and milk ordained by God, and there is no need of animal food, save and except in particular cases.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.17.10-11)
Unfortunately, the meat sector remains unorganized except cattle meat processing for export market. This has led to not only continuous upward pressure on meat prices, but also increasing concerns regarding hygiene standards of meat products. Quality and hygiene levels in the meat market continue to be major issues due to unscientific breeding, primitive and crude slaughtering and de-feathering techniques, lack of basic infrastructure facilities including facilities for handling carcass/flaying, cross– contamination in slaughter and improper handling during carriage and transportation. These issues lead to high wastages of meat, contamination and deterioration in quality during the whole process. It was thus felt that both qualitative as well as quantitative capacities of abattoirs need to be upgraded and they are required to be appropriately linked with commercial processing of meat, both for domestic consumption and export markets besides discouraging unauthorized slaughtering.
Creation of the infrastructure of Meat Testing Laboratories also needs to be looked at.
In view of the above, during 11th Plan, the Ministry had launched a comprehensive Scheme for Modernization of Abattoirs across the Country. The Scheme is mainly aimed at promoting scientific and hygienic slaughtering of animals, by-product utilization and value addition, provision of chilling facility to prevent microbial activity in slaughtered animals and better forward linkage facilities for finished meat and meat products.
Creation of the infrastructure of Meat Testing Laboratories also needs to be looked at.
In view of the above, during 11th Plan, the Ministry had launched a comprehensive Scheme for Modernization of Abattoirs across the Country. The Scheme is mainly aimed at promoting scientific and hygienic slaughtering of animals, by-product utilization and value addition, provision of chilling facility to prevent microbial activity in slaughtered animals and better forward linkage facilities for finished meat and meat products.
If man does not allow the animals peaceful coexistence, how can he expect peaceful existence in human society? The blind leaders must therefore understand the laws of the Supreme Being and then try to rule.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.13.47)
The Scheme is to be implemented with the involvement of local bodies (Panchayats and Municipal Corporations) and also has the flexibility for facilitating involvement of private investors through competitive bidding. Professional agencies are also being involved by the Ministry for project appraisals, implementation and monitoring of projects.
A. Status Of Implementation
As in the case of Mega Food Parks and Integrated Cold Chain projects, the Ministry initially decided to take up 10 abattoir projects in the first phase. The approved 10 projects are under various stages of implementation in Dimapur (Nagaland), Kolkata (West Bengal), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh), Patna (Bihar), Ahmednagar (Maharashtra), Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir), Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir) and Shillong ( Meghalaya). Two of these projects viz. Dimapur and Ahmednagar have been completed and commissioned. The third project at Hyderabad is likely to be completed by December, 2011. Other projects have also received requisite approvals, including environmental clearance, and are under construction.
Major challenges of the Scheme remain identification and acquisition of land and complex regulatory issues related to such projects. Considering the challenges of the sector, though, the progress of the Scheme may be considered satisfactory.
Major challenges of the Scheme remain identification and acquisition of land and complex regulatory issues related to such projects. Considering the challenges of the sector, though, the progress of the Scheme may be considered satisfactory.
etam drstim avastabhya
nastatmano 'lpa-buddhayah
prabhavanty ugra-karmanah
ksayaya jagato 'hitah
Following such conclusions, the demoniac, who are lost to themselves and who have no intelligence, engage in unbeneficial, horrible works meant to destroy the world.
The demoniac are engaged in activities that will lead the world to destruction. The Lord states here that they are less intelligent. The materialists, who have no concept of God, think that they are advancing. But according to Bhagavad-gita, they are unintelligent and devoid of all sense. They try to enjoy this material world to the utmost limit and therefore always engage in inventing something for sense gratification. Such materialistic inventions are considered to be advancement of human civilization, but the result is that people grow more and more violent and more and more cruel, cruel to animals and cruel to other human beings. They have no idea how to behave toward one another. Animal killing is very prominent amongst demoniac people.
~ Srila Prabhuapda (Bhagavad-gita 16.9)
B. Recommendations For 12th Plan
In view of the satisfactory progress and further interest shown by various State Governments, the Sub-group report has recommended continuation and further upscaling of this Scheme.
It is proposed to establish 90 new abattoirs and modernize 150 existing abattoirs during 12th Plan. It is also being recommended that while these projects may remain owned by municipal bodies, the responsibility of Operation and Management (O&M) of these facilities may be ideally done by private sector, appointed through a transparent bidding process.
Finally, this Scheme is recommended to become part of the proposed NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing) to be implemented by State Governments since most of the proposals are from the Municipal Bodies who are closely connected to the State Governments.
However, as the system of approval of abattoir projects at the State level, as a component of NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing), may take some time to come into operation, it is proposed that the Scheme for Modernisation of Abattoir may continue to be operated as Central Sector Scheme by the Ministry till 31 March 2014. It is envisaged that under Central Sector Scheme, during first two years of the 12th Plan, 40 abattoir projects would be take up which would include 20 projects for setting up new abattoirs and 20 others for modenisation of existing abattoirs. In addition, the Ministry would continue to be directly responsible for remaining grant to be given to projects sanctioned during the 11th Plan.
During 11th Plan, the Ministry has already provided assistance to around 2,000 units under this Scheme with around similar number of units likely to be assisted with proposed enhancement in budget allocation.
It is proposed to establish 90 new abattoirs and modernize 150 existing abattoirs during 12th Plan. It is also being recommended that while these projects may remain owned by municipal bodies, the responsibility of Operation and Management (O&M) of these facilities may be ideally done by private sector, appointed through a transparent bidding process.
Finally, this Scheme is recommended to become part of the proposed NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing) to be implemented by State Governments since most of the proposals are from the Municipal Bodies who are closely connected to the State Governments.
However, as the system of approval of abattoir projects at the State level, as a component of NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing), may take some time to come into operation, it is proposed that the Scheme for Modernisation of Abattoir may continue to be operated as Central Sector Scheme by the Ministry till 31 March 2014. It is envisaged that under Central Sector Scheme, during first two years of the 12th Plan, 40 abattoir projects would be take up which would include 20 projects for setting up new abattoirs and 20 others for modenisation of existing abattoirs. In addition, the Ministry would continue to be directly responsible for remaining grant to be given to projects sanctioned during the 11th Plan.
During 11th Plan, the Ministry has already provided assistance to around 2,000 units under this Scheme with around similar number of units likely to be assisted with proposed enhancement in budget allocation.
The cow is not my mother? Who can live without milk? And who has not taken cow's milk? Immediately, in the morning, you require milk. And the animal, she's supplying milk, she's not mother? What is the sense? Mother-killing civilization. And they want to be happy. And periodically there is great war and wholesale massacre, reaction.
-Srila Prabhupada (Garden Conversation, June 14, 1976, Detroit)
Scheme For Supporting Cold Chain Facilities For Non-Horticultural Produces And Reefer Vehicles
At present, NHM/NHB programmes provide funding support for standalone modern cold storage facilities horticultural produces. However, such support is not available for nonhorticultural projects dealing with dairy, fish, poultry, meat etc.
It is proposed to support such projects now under NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing) with the same funding pattern as available under the Central Sector Scheme supporting integrated cold chains, i.e., capital grant of 50% and 75% of the project cost for general areas and difficult areas respectively. This initiative would also support projects for acquisition of reefer vehicles for efficient transportation of food processing products.
It is proposed to support such projects now under NMFP (National Mission on Food Processing) with the same funding pattern as available under the Central Sector Scheme supporting integrated cold chains, i.e., capital grant of 50% and 75% of the project cost for general areas and difficult areas respectively. This initiative would also support projects for acquisition of reefer vehicles for efficient transportation of food processing products.
Pariksit Maharaja was an ideal king and householder because he was a devotee of the Personality of Godhead. And the Emperor was a typical example of this. Personally he had no attachment for all the worldly opulences in his possession. But since he was king for the all-around welfare of his citizens, he was always busy in the welfare work of the public, not only for this life, but also for the next. He would not allow slaughterhouses or killing of cows. He was not a foolish and partial administrator who would arrange for the protection of one living being and allow another to be killed. Because he was a devotee of the Lord, he knew perfectly well how to conduct his administration for everyone's happiness -- men, animals, plants and all living creatures.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.12)
C. Scheme For Modernization Of Meat Shops
This Scheme has been designed to address increasing concern about public health arising out of contamination and poor quality of meat being made available from meat shops in urban areas. It is believed that small investments by these meat shops in basic infrastructure (e.g. tiles, SS wash basin, exhaust and ventilation systems) and equipment (cutting table with SS base, deep freezer, sealing machine etc.) would go a long way in promoting hygienic meat consumption and thus give further fillip to this sector.
Each meat shop is proposed to be provided with maximum grant of 3 lakh, depending on eligible items, through this Scheme which may be implemented as part of NMFP through local urban bodies. It is proposed to modernize 10,000 meat shops during the 12th Plan in the Country.
Each meat shop is proposed to be provided with maximum grant of 3 lakh, depending on eligible items, through this Scheme which may be implemented as part of NMFP through local urban bodies. It is proposed to modernize 10,000 meat shops during the 12th Plan in the Country.
D. Scheme For Human Resource Development (HRD)
All the activities being conducted by the Ministry under this Scheme would be now made partly available to the State Governments through NMFP. In case of Skill Development for the food processing sector, which is a gigantic task, the same would be implemented through NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management) which would work as the apex body to plan strategic roll out, implement and monitor this development of around 3 million skilled people for the food processing sector during next 7–8 years. This would be achieved by networking with the existing Government/non-Governmental/private organizations as well as establishing some new structures wherever required.
"These blind leaders, they do not know." They are especially mentioned, andha yathandhair upaniyamanah. The leaders, they lead others. So, yad yad acarati srestha tat tad evetaro janah [Bg. 3.21]. Leaders are responsible because yad yad acarati srestha: "Those who are leaders, whatever they do, they perform, common men follow that." Therefore they must be very perfect. Common men follow the leaders. If the leaders are themselves imperfect, then what will be the position of the common men?
So here it is said that because the leaders, they do not know what is the aim of life, what is the goal of life, therefore common men, people in general, they are being misguided. They are being misguided. Suppose a blind man leads some other blind men. What will be the result? Both of them will meet danger.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Srimad-Bhagavatam 7.5.31 -- Mauritius, October 4, 1975)
The Ministry would handle/coordinate all the work pertaining to skill development till such time NIFTEM becomes fully operational and capable enough to handle the skill development as envisaged in the foregoing. The Ministry would continue to give the overall policy framework and monitor progress achieved by NIFTEM in this direction.
I. Creation Of Infrastructure Facilities For Running Degree/ Diploma/Certificate Courses In Food Processing Technology
This is to encourage introduction of specialized courses in food processing technology in recognized Colleges/Educational Institutions. Apart from Degree/Diploma courses, certain short duration Certificate courses may also be considered under the Scheme. These courses may be of duration of 3–6 months and initiated preferably through Industrial Training Institutes/Polytechnics. The level of assistance available for creation of requisite infrastructure is proposed to be enhanced from existing 75 lakh to 1 crore for each proposal.
II. Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP)
This is to promote entrepreneurship in food processing sector. Eligible institutions may be provided assistance of 2 lakh per EDP during 12th Plan. The Curriculums for such programmes may be standardized with the assistance of NIFTEM to keep them abreast of developments in the food processing industry and till such time the existing curriculum would be continued.
III. Food Processing Training Centre (FPTC)
These Centres are basically meant for development of rural entrepreneurship and transfer of technology for processing of food products by utilising locally grown raw material and providing hands-on experience at such production–cum-training centres. Thus, these Centres would be helpful in promoting entrepreneurship/skill development as well as transfer of technology.
The entire outlay for HRD activities during the 12th Plan would now be implemented under NMFP though the Ministry would be directly releasing remaining assistance for projects sanctioned during 11th Plan, for which 6 crore each for next two years has been provided.
I. Creation Of Infrastructure Facilities For Running Degree/ Diploma/Certificate Courses In Food Processing Technology
This is to encourage introduction of specialized courses in food processing technology in recognized Colleges/Educational Institutions. Apart from Degree/Diploma courses, certain short duration Certificate courses may also be considered under the Scheme. These courses may be of duration of 3–6 months and initiated preferably through Industrial Training Institutes/Polytechnics. The level of assistance available for creation of requisite infrastructure is proposed to be enhanced from existing 75 lakh to 1 crore for each proposal.
II. Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP)
This is to promote entrepreneurship in food processing sector. Eligible institutions may be provided assistance of 2 lakh per EDP during 12th Plan. The Curriculums for such programmes may be standardized with the assistance of NIFTEM to keep them abreast of developments in the food processing industry and till such time the existing curriculum would be continued.
III. Food Processing Training Centre (FPTC)
These Centres are basically meant for development of rural entrepreneurship and transfer of technology for processing of food products by utilising locally grown raw material and providing hands-on experience at such production–cum-training centres. Thus, these Centres would be helpful in promoting entrepreneurship/skill development as well as transfer of technology.
The entire outlay for HRD activities during the 12th Plan would now be implemented under NMFP though the Ministry would be directly releasing remaining assistance for projects sanctioned during 11th Plan, for which 6 crore each for next two years has been provided.
E. Scheme For Promotional Activities
Out of the total proposed budget for various promotional Schemes of the Ministry, 50% of funds would be made available to State Governments through Mission during 12th Plan. Some of the promotional activities to be funded under Mission would be as follows:
Has this civilization produced anything but quarreling individually and nationally? Has this civilization enhanced the cause of equality and fraternity by sending thousands of men into a hellish factory and the warfields at the whims of a particular man? It is said here that the cows used to moisten the pasturing land with milk because their milk bags were fatty and the animals were joyful. Do they not require, therefore, proper protection for a joyful life by being fed with a sufficient quantity of grass in the field? Why should men kill cows for their selfish purposes? Why should men not be satisfied with grains, fruits and milk, which, combined together, can produce hundreds and thousands of palatable dishes. Why are there slaughterhouses all over the world to kill innocent animals? Maharaja Pariksit, grandson of Maharaja Yudhisthira, while touring his vast kingdom, saw a black man attempting to kill a cow. The King at once arrested the butcher and chastised him sufficiently. Should not a king or an executive head protect the lives of the poor animals who are unable to defend themselves? Is this humanity? Are not the animals of a country citizens also? Then why are they allowed to be butchered in organized slaughterhouses? Are these the signs of equality and fraternity and nonviolence? Therefore, in contrast with the modern, advanced, civilized form of government, an autocracy like Maharaja Yudhisthira's is by far superior to so-called democracy in which animals are killed and a man less than an animal is allowed to cast votes for another less than animal man.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Room Conversations -- July 26, 1975, Laguna Beach)
i. Organizing seminar/Workshops
For organizing seminars/workshops, State agencies and industry associations would be eligible for grant up to 50% of the cost, subject to a maximum of 7 lakh per event.
ii. Conducting studies/survey
For conducting studies/surveys or preparation of feasibility reports etc., agencies would be eligible for grant up to 50% of the cost, subject to a maximum of 10 lakh for each proposal.
iii. Support to exhibitions/fairs
In case of financial assistance to any institution/organization for organizing a fair/exhibition or sponsoring/co-sponsoring of a fair/exhibition, quantum of assistance may be decided on merits of the proposal by State Mission, subject to a maximum assistance of 7 lakh.
iv. Advertising And Publicity
The proposed activities under the Mission would need to be given adequate publicity to ensure their optimal utilisation. This would be more critical during initial years. Thus, there would be provision for funds for dissemination of information and creation of necessary awareness about various Schemes to be covered under the Mission.
For organizing seminars/workshops, State agencies and industry associations would be eligible for grant up to 50% of the cost, subject to a maximum of 7 lakh per event.
ii. Conducting studies/survey
For conducting studies/surveys or preparation of feasibility reports etc., agencies would be eligible for grant up to 50% of the cost, subject to a maximum of 10 lakh for each proposal.
iii. Support to exhibitions/fairs
In case of financial assistance to any institution/organization for organizing a fair/exhibition or sponsoring/co-sponsoring of a fair/exhibition, quantum of assistance may be decided on merits of the proposal by State Mission, subject to a maximum assistance of 7 lakh.
iv. Advertising And Publicity
The proposed activities under the Mission would need to be given adequate publicity to ensure their optimal utilisation. This would be more critical during initial years. Thus, there would be provision for funds for dissemination of information and creation of necessary awareness about various Schemes to be covered under the Mission.
Killing is illegal, according to the law of God. But the government does not want to follow God's law. They would rather follow their own cruel whims.
On the one side, the government prohibits the flesh-eaters from eating animals who have died a natural death. On the other side, they allow the flesh-eaters to put millions of animals to most unnatural, painful death in slaughterhouses.
These rascals are in power. But legally -- according to God's law -- they should permit flesh-eaters to eat only animals who have died a natural death.
In India, for example, after some animal has died, people come and take the carcass away -- free. They get it without any cost to themselves. They get the skin for making shoes and so forth. They get the flesh for eating. Let them cook and eat it if they want. The farmer does not charge anything. Why slaughterhouses? Take this."
So some day, when the government is made up of godly men, there will be no more slaughterhouses. And you’ll be able to advertise, “Here is a cow carcass -- available free.” Those who are butchers and tanners can take the flesh and skins free.
~ Srila Prabhupada (Morning walk, New Orleans)
National Meat And Poultry Processing Board (NMPPB)
National Meat and Poultry Processing Board (NMPPB) is another much needed institution for a sector, which is mostly unorganized and has remained neglected, due to both historical and cultural reasons. The Ministry is though fully seized of the huge potential of this sector in coming years and has therefore mandated NMPPB to guide the sector through its future growth path. The Board would have focus on evolving and adherence to modern
standards of hygiene and quality in this sector, through initiatives for standardization, testing etc. The activities that are proposed for NMPPB during the 12th Plan include:
i. Studies/Surveys/Research
ii. Outreach Activities
iii. Training programs for butchers, municipal officials and entrepreneurs
iv. Establishment expenses of NMPPB
v. Promotional activities like participating in exhibitions, seminars etc in India and abroad
vi. Filling patterns
vii. Establishing food testing Laboratories
standards of hygiene and quality in this sector, through initiatives for standardization, testing etc. The activities that are proposed for NMPPB during the 12th Plan include:
i. Studies/Surveys/Research
ii. Outreach Activities
iii. Training programs for butchers, municipal officials and entrepreneurs
iv. Establishment expenses of NMPPB
v. Promotional activities like participating in exhibitions, seminars etc in India and abroad
vi. Filling patterns
vii. Establishing food testing Laboratories
When we kill the animals to eat them, they end up killing us because their flesh, which contains cholesterol and saturated fat, was never intended for human beings.
~Williams C. Roberts, M.D., editor of The American Journal of Cardiology
Indian Grape Processing Board (IGBP)
The growth potential of wine sector necessitated creation of Indian Grape Processing Board (IGPB). This Board, located at Pune amidst grape growing area, would be aiming at making Indian wine a preferred product in both domestic and foreign markets. For this purpose, IGPB is creating a detailed Action Plan with special stress on increasing efficiency and quality upgradation.
Academic Programs
The National Meat And Poultry Processing Board (NMPPB) began offering formal degree courses at bachelors, masters and doctoral levels in food process engineering from 2009-10 academic year. In B.Tech program 40 students are admitted every year, 10 students in the M. Tech program and 5 in the Ph.D programs.
In a significant related decision, based on recommendations of the concerned Sub-group report, it is proposed to bifurcate the NMPPB and create separate Boards for meat and poultry. The necessary steps would be taken soon and suitable provisions would be made in the 12th Plan for expanding their activities. Thus, the existing NMPPB would be converted into a Board looking after meat processing only. This is being proposed as it has been felt that both meat and poultry sectors are sufficiently large, with their own special needs and separate sets of stakeholders, to warrant dedicated Boards.
It is further proposed to set up a National Meat Processing Training Centre and 20 Meat Quality Labs in the Country to ensure all round development of this sector.
In a significant related decision, based on recommendations of the concerned Sub-group report, it is proposed to bifurcate the NMPPB and create separate Boards for meat and poultry. The necessary steps would be taken soon and suitable provisions would be made in the 12th Plan for expanding their activities. Thus, the existing NMPPB would be converted into a Board looking after meat processing only. This is being proposed as it has been felt that both meat and poultry sectors are sufficiently large, with their own special needs and separate sets of stakeholders, to warrant dedicated Boards.
It is further proposed to set up a National Meat Processing Training Centre and 20 Meat Quality Labs in the Country to ensure all round development of this sector.
People everywhere are suffering on account of being led by blind leaders who are devoid of all knowledge of the soul. Such foolish men lead other foolish men and all concerned suffer. Andha yathandhair upaniyamana, when one blind man leads another, the result is that both of them fall into the ditch. Therefore there is a requirement for a section of society to become first-class men, free of the influence of the modes of material nature, who can understand the mission of this human form of life and who can teach it to others.
~ Srila Prabhupada (A Transcendental Diary, Vol.4)
Promoting Innovations
The need for innovation has never been felt more as India strives to find a delicate balance between growth aspirations of its poor and increasing concerns about environmental degradation.
The decision to declare 2010–2020 as a “Decade of Innovation” and setting up of National Innovation Council (NIC) may be regarded as significant steps in this direction. In keeping with this national goal, the Ministry has decided to make innovation in food processing, part of its central theme of planning for the 12th Plan.
As mentioned in the previous sections of this Report, dealing with strengthening of institutions and promotion of R&D, the establishment of NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management) is part of this belief to encourage product and process innovations in food processing sector. Further, the existing Schemes as well as proposed measures for promoting R&D efforts are also expected to promote innovation. It is though felt that encouraging innovations may require much more efforts and thus it is now proposed to introduce some direct measures for this purpose.
The decision to declare 2010–2020 as a “Decade of Innovation” and setting up of National Innovation Council (NIC) may be regarded as significant steps in this direction. In keeping with this national goal, the Ministry has decided to make innovation in food processing, part of its central theme of planning for the 12th Plan.
As mentioned in the previous sections of this Report, dealing with strengthening of institutions and promotion of R&D, the establishment of NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management) is part of this belief to encourage product and process innovations in food processing sector. Further, the existing Schemes as well as proposed measures for promoting R&D efforts are also expected to promote innovation. It is though felt that encouraging innovations may require much more efforts and thus it is now proposed to introduce some direct measures for this purpose.
Summary Of Financial Projections For 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17)
There is a total financial projection of 15,304 crore for the 12th Five Year Plan. More than 75% of this is accounted for by Infrastructure Development Scheme and National Mission on Food Processing. Further, out of around 11,750 crore under these two initiatives, an amount of 10,300 crore has been proposed towards part capital support to projects like Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chains, modernization of abattoirs and setting up of other food processing units.
The total financial outlay of around 15,300 crore would have an aggregate component of around 10,300 crore towards providing capital assistance to projects such as food parks, cold chains, abattoirs, on-farm infrastructure and other food processing units.
As has been mentioned earlier, the Ministry would be targeting skill development of 3 million persons under its proposed skill development programme. This programme would thus prepare rural youth for working with food processing industry and ensure that the sector, with above projected investment and growth, does not face any manpower issues.
The total financial outlay of around 15,300 crore would have an aggregate component of around 10,300 crore towards providing capital assistance to projects such as food parks, cold chains, abattoirs, on-farm infrastructure and other food processing units.
As has been mentioned earlier, the Ministry would be targeting skill development of 3 million persons under its proposed skill development programme. This programme would thus prepare rural youth for working with food processing industry and ensure that the sector, with above projected investment and growth, does not face any manpower issues.
mrgostra-khara-markakhusarisrp khaga-maksikah
atmanah putravat pasyet
tair esam antaram kiyat
One should treat animals such as deer, camels, asses, monkeys, mice, snakes, birds and flies exactly like one's own son. How little difference there actually is between children and these innocent animals.
(Srimad Bhagavatam 7.14.9)
