Abdur Razzak Molla invites investments in state

State Food Processing Industries and Horticulture minister Abdur Razzak Molla invited industrialists to invest in Bengal, especially in the field of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture. The government would give full support to meet all requirements of industry in terms of infrastructure and logistics.

"The businessmen will do business and they will make profit. I will invite the industry to invest on Food Processing Industries and Horticulture sector here in Bengal," Molla said while addressing a large group of industry members at the CII-organised 'Food Processing Conclave – Opportunities in Bengal'. "You can start your projects here. You can also advice us on developing the required infrastructure," he added.

"We can make a pilot project after discussion with the industry members," the minister said.

"We are fully aware that you will invest here not for charity, but to make profits. That is fair but please let us know how the state would have the investment from your side. We'll try and meet your requirements," the minister added. "Investing in Bengal, which have a long coastline, means that you are at a close location to a vast market which includes SAARC and South East Asian countries," he said. He also said in a bid to develop a robust meat processing industry, the state government would give approval to five slaughter houses in municipalities adjacent to Kolkata.

The government is also exporting green chillies to London and Dubai. Not only fruits and vegetables but opportunities in marine products, bakery and confectionery are immense, the minister said, adding that "all you (investors) need to ensure is quality development."

Pradip Kumar Mazumdar, the adviser to the Chief Minister on agriculture and allied sectors, said that two-third of the population in Bengal lives on agriculture and there is an urgent need for framing right the policies and support system.