Gandhinagar: The Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, a flagship initiative under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, is transforming lives across Gujarat. Launched in 2020 by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, the scheme aims to strengthen India’s vast unorganised food processing sector through financial aid, technical guidance, and business support.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat has become one of the leading implementers of this scheme, contributing to both Viksit Gujarat and the national goal of Viksit Bharat@2047.
675 Beneficiaries and Growing: Gujarat Leads by Example
As of July 2025, Gujarat has onboarded 675 beneficiaries under the PMFME scheme. Through a convergence of central and state support, micro food processing enterprises are scaling operations, upgrading technology, accessing markets, and creating jobs. The scheme is helping entrepreneurs transform small setups into competitive businesses with global footprints.
Success Story 1: From Bananas to Business—Lalit Thummar’s Surbhi Wafers
In Navsari, Lalit Thummar turned his small kitchen venture into Surbhi Wafers Pvt Ltd, now a leading exporter of banana wafers. Starting with just 1–2 kg of handmade chips, he scaled to exporting 1.5 tonnes daily to seven countries, thanks to PMFME support.
The scheme enabled him to install automated peeling, slicing, and frying machinery, improving consistency, hygiene, and shelf life. Surbhi Wafers is now a symbol of Indian taste reaching global shelves—empowering local farmers and creating jobs, especially for women.
Success Story 2: Health Drinks That Fuel Growth—Bakulesh D. Nagar
In Ahmedabad, Bakulesh D. Nagar built a successful brand of protein powders and energy drinks, popular with gyms and health-conscious youth. As demand surged, the PMFME scheme provided expert guidance and a 35% capital subsidy, helping him modernise production with advanced machinery and packaging solutions.
The upgrade resulted in higher output, better branding, and expanded distribution. His story is a testament to how PMFME promotes innovation, quality, and entrepreneurship in the health-food space.
Success Story 3: Flour Power—Mayur Vaghasiya’s Ghanshyam Flour Mill
From a 10×10 ft shop with three employees, Mayur Vaghasiya of Surat grew Ghanshyam Flour Mill into a major enterprise with three factories, eight outlets, and 40 employees.
Inspired by his father’s humble beginnings in 1998, Mayur embraced structure, planning, and innovation. His mill now produces 52 flour types, including idli, jowar, maize, and dokla flours, many of which are exported. By empowering his staff, implementing SOPs, and investing in packaging and factory expansion, Mayur built a scalable, future-ready business.
PMFME: A Foundation for Viksit Bharat
The PMFME scheme offers:
- 35% capital subsidy (up to ₹10 lakh per unit)
- ₹40,000 seed capital per SHG member
- 50% support for branding and marketing
- Structured training in technical and business aspects
These components are designed to boost productivity, quality, and competitiveness—creating a vibrant, resilient food processing ecosystem.
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Building Viksit Gujarat, One Enterprise at a Time
The stories of Lalit Thummar, Bakulesh Nagar, and Mayur Vaghasiya exemplify the transformational power of grassroots governance, backed by strong state and central leadership. Through the PMFME scheme, Gujarat is laying the groundwork for an inclusive and self-reliant economy, where local entrepreneurs can dream big and achieve global success.
Under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi and CM Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat’s model showcases how structured policy support and entrepreneurial spirit can shape the future of Viksit Bharat@2047.
