Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 7 (KNN) The Norwegian company Orkla has decided to invest Rs 150 crore in Kerala’s food processing sector.

Atle Vidar Nagel Johansen, CEO of Orkla branded consumer goods, gave an assurance to State Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan that the investment of Rs 150 crore would be made in the southern State, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said in a statement.

The assurance was given in a meeting held with a high-level delegation led by Vijayan during the ongoing European tour to attract investments.

As per reports, the company is also planning to invest in Kerala’s renewable energy sector.

“Orkla decided to set up a food processing research centre and introduce a system to ensure more income for farmers and also plans to invest in renewable energy sector,” the CMO statement said quoting Atle Vidar.

Speaking about the state government’s stratergy, Vijayan, said “The State government is giving top priority to the food processing sector to utilise the State's potential in the area.”

The Industries Department used to appoint a special nodal officer for those who invest more than Rs 100 crore. As part of this, the nodal officer would be entrusted with the task to provide hand-holding services for the further investments by Orkla, he added.

State Industries Minister P Rajeeve, Chief Secretary V P Joy were amongst those present at the meet.  (KNN Bureau)