How do small-scale industries, including food processing industries, contribute to rural development?
Small-scale industries, including food processing industries, contribute to rural development by generating employment opportunities, promoting local entrepreneurship, and enhancing the income of rural households. These industries also help in reducing migration from rural areas to urban areas, thereby fostering balanced regional development. Additionally, they can lead to better utilization of locally available resources, promote technology transfer and skill development, and boost economic growth in rural areas.