BIA backs govt’s plan for setting up food parks in state

Patna: Bihar Industries Association (BIA) on Thursday backed CM Samrat Choudhary’s directive to set up 11 mega food parks across the state’s 38 districts, aiming to boost agriculture-led industrial growth and promote local processing of farm and forestry produce.BIA president Ram Lall Khetan said processing agriculture products locally is key to value addition, enhancing farmers’ income and generating employment across Bihar. He added that the decentralised plan aligns with recommendations earlier submitted by the association.BIA secretary general Amarnath Jaiswal also welcomed the proposed rapid rail link between Patna and Muzaffarpur, saying improved connectivity would ease movement of skilled labour and professionals. He said the project could help develop Muzaffarpur as a major industrial hub while reducing infrastructure pressure on Patna.The association further appreciated the CM’s directive for greater engagement between govt officials and industrial stakeholders. Jaiswal said institutionalised consultations and quicker resolution of operational issues would improve ease of doing business and boost investor confidence in the state.