Food processing
Explanation
Industries are classified based on the source of raw materials they utilize. Agro-based industries are those that use plant and animal-based agricultural products as their primary raw materials.
Option Analysis
- Food processing is Correct: Food processing involves the transformation of agricultural produce (crops, fruits, vegetables) into consumable food products. Since it relies directly on agricultural output, it is a primary example of an agro-based industry. Other examples include cotton textiles, vegetable oil, and dairy products.
- Fish oil manufacturing is Incorrect: Fish oil manufacturing is classified as a Marine-based industry. These industries use products obtained from seas and oceans as raw materials.
- Pulp and paper is Incorrect: Pulp and paper is primarily classified as a Forest-based industry. It utilizes forest produce such as wood, bamboo, and grass as raw materials.
- Iron and Steel is Incorrect: Iron and Steel is a Mineral-based industry. It uses mineral ores (like iron ore) as raw materials and serves as a feeder industry for other sectors.
Key Takeaway
Agro-based industries derive raw materials from agriculture (e.g., sugar, textiles, food processing), whereas Forest-based industries rely on forest produce (e.g., paper, furniture), and Marine-based industries rely on ocean resources.