<h1>Government boosts agricultural scheme budget by Rs 1,920 crore to expand food irradiation and testing labs</h1> The government increased the budget for a key agricultural scheme by Rs 1,920 crore, raising the total allocation to Rs 6,520 crore for the fiscal year. The funds will support the establishment of 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 NABL-accredited food testing laboratories under specific component schemes. Approximately Rs 1,000 crore is designated for the irradiation units and labs, while Rs 920 crore will fund various projects under the scheme during the current finance cycle. The initiative aims to enhance food preservation capacity, reduce post-harvest losses, ensure food safety compliance, and boost exports. Expressions of Interest will be invited from eligible entities, with proposals scrutinized according to existing guidelines. The expansion is expected to strengthen infrastructure in the food processing sector and improve adherence to domestic and international food safety standards.