Advisor Ladakh Dr. Pawan Kotwal chaired a meeting of the State Level Approval Committee (SLAC) at the Civil Secretariat, Leh, on August 9, to review and approve proposals for Branding & Marketing support under the Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme.

The meeting began with a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation by the Department of Industries and Commerce, outlining the PMFME scheme. Launched in June 2020 by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), the centrally sponsored initiative aims to provide subsidies and financial assistance to both new and existing Micro Food Processing units. The scheme benefits individual enterprises, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.

A detailed project report was presented by the Deputy Registrar, Cooperative, Leh, on behalf of Bhami Dunya Consumer Cooperative, Leh, to the General Manager of the District Industries Centre, Leh. The proposal seeks support under the PMFME scheme for developing a common brand, “Wonder Berry,” to promote Seabuckthorn-based products. Seabuckthorn has been identified by MoFPI as the One District One Product (ODOP) for Leh district. The proposed products include Seabuckthorn Juice, Squash, Dry Berry, Oil, Herbal Tea, Puree, and more.

Dr. Kotwal emphasized the importance of Seabuckthorn production and processing in Ladakh, highlighting its potential as a unique and nutritious fruit thriving in the region’s cold desert climate. He noted that the initiative aims to empower local communities by formalizing and enhancing Micro Food Processing Enterprises, thus fully realizing Seabuckthorn’s commercial potential. “Traditionally used for its health benefits, Seabuckthorn's economic possibilities remain largely untapped. The PMFME scheme is set to transform this potential into a viable economic reality,” said Dr. Kotwal.

He further stressed the need for sustainable practices to increase Seabuckthorn production in Ladakh, which would secure long-term ecological and economic benefits for the region. By focusing on sustainability, the initiative aims to preserve Ladakh’s unique biodiversity and ensure that future generations can benefit from its natural resources.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Sanjeev Kirwar, Principal Secretary of the Industries and Commerce Department; Amir Suhail, Under Secretary of Agriculture, Horticulture, and Floriculture; Padma Angmo, Commissioner Secretary of the Technical Education and Skill Development Department; Sh. Mohammad Nazir Sheikh, Director of Industries and Commerce, Ladakh; representatives from the Cooperative sector—Skarma Tashi, Gonbo Angchuk, Mohammad Abuzar; Tsering Morup (AGM) from UTLBC; and Beronica Borua from the Industries Department, SPMU, PMFME.