FNB News - We introduced wide-ranging reforms to transform food processing : Modi

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We introduced wide-ranging reforms to transform food processing : Modi

Friday, 20 September, 2024, 12 : 00 PM [IST]

Our Bureau, New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his message at World Food India 2024, said that it was a pleasure to learn about the organisation of the show. He conveyed greetings and best wishes to all the participants who have come from various parts of the world.

The Prime Minister said that the participation of several nations showcases the show as a vibrant platform for the brightest minds from global food industry, academia and research to make the most of increasing opportunities, share and engage in a two-way learning from each other's experiences.

Modi stated that India has a vibrant and diverse food culture. “The backbone of Indian food ecosystem is the farmer. It is farmers who have ensured the creation of nutritious and delicious traditions of culinary excellence. We are supporting their hard work with innovative policies and focused implementation,” he said.

The PM, in his message, further said that in the modern era, through progressive agricultural practices, strong administrative frameworks and cutting-edge technologies, our effort is to ensure that India sets global benchmarks for innovation, sustainability and safety in the food sector. He stated that during the last 10 years, we have introduced wide-ranging reforms to transform the food processing sector. Through multi-dimensional initiatives such as 100% FDI in food processing, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises, Production Linked Incentive scheme for food processing industries, we are creating a strong ecosystem of modern infrastructure, robust supply chains and employment generation across the country.

Modi said that an important part of our vision is to empower small enterprises. We want our MSMEs to flourish and become an integral part of the global value chain and at the same time, encourage women to become micro entrepreneurs. He emphasised that at such a juncture, the event is an ideal platform for us to work with the world through B2B interactions and exhibitions, reverse buyer-seller meets, and country, state and sector-specific sessions.

Additionally, the organisation of Global Food Regulators Summit by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) will bring together global regulators including WHO, FAO and several prestigious domestic institutes to discuss a wide gamut of issues such as food safety, quality standards and best practices, the PM said.

Modi said that he was sure that important topics such as food irradiation to enhance food safety and reduce food wastage, plant-based proteins to promote nutrition and sustainability, as well as the circular economy will be showcased. Let us march ahead and realise the dream of building a sustainable, safe, inclusive and nutritious world, he said.

Further, a high-level CEO roundtable under the co-chairpersonship of Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan was organised on the inaugural day. It lay focus on promoting investment and enhancing Ease of Doing Business and was attended by over 100 CXOs.

The roundtable was also graced by the presence of Ravneet Singh Bittu, Minister of State for Food Processing & Railways; TG Bharath, Minister of Industries and Commerce, Andhra Pradesh; and Raghavji Patel, Minister of Agriculture, Gujarat; and senior officials from various ministries of Government of India and State Governments.

Minister of New and Renewable Energy, and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi along with Chirag Paswan and Ravneet Singh Bittu, inaugurated the 3rd edition of the mega food event at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. They also visited the exhibition areas. The event will be held till September 22, 2024.

Addressing the gathering, Joshi welcomed global dignitaries and highlighted India’s remarkable journey in achieving food security, sustainability, and innovation. He reiterated the government's commitment to secure good quality food for domestic and global consumers, ensuring a hunger-free world. He emphasised ensuring welfare of farmers through initiatives aimed at boosting incomes, improving access to technology and providing fair prices for their produce.

Paswan mentioned that the 3rd edition marks a pivotal moment in India's journey as a global leader in the food processing industry. The event showcases India’s transformation into a food processing powerhouse, bringing together international partners, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. Highlighting India’s economic resilience and growth, he mentioned that the food processing sector has become a key contributor for driving exports, employment, and income for farmers. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and technology, the event underscores India's commitment to shaping the future of global food security, supported by enabling policies and initiatives. Paswan also underscored the importance of global collaboration, innovation, and investment in shaping the future of the food industry, positioning India as a key player in the global market while fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Bittu in his address highlighted India’s emergence as a global leader in the food processing sector, emphasising the nation’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity. He said that the government is focusing on sustainability, championing efforts to reduce food waste, embrace renewable energy, and promote eco-friendly practices.

One of the major highlights of the event was the inauguration of more than 50 MoFPI-supported food processing units under the PLIS and PMKSY schemes of MoFPI, disbursement of credit-linked subsidies to 25,000 PMFME beneficiaries and the sanction of seed capital to 70,000 SHG members.
As part of the Startup Grand Challenge to promote innovation in waste management, efficient water uses and novel food processing technologies, the winners of the challenge were awarded during the event. The Ministry will provide financial as well as incubation support through NIFTEM-Kundli to the winners.

The event serves as a major networking and business platform for government bodies, industry professionals, farmers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to engage in discussions, establish partnerships, and explore investment opportunities in the agri-food sector.

Various pavilions including startup and technology are set up to showcase the innovation and strength of the Indian food processing industry. A Global Food Regulators Summit 2024 by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is being organised in conjunction with World Food India from September 20-21, 2024. The summit will be focusing on food safety, quality standards, and best practices, with participants from global food regulators, WHO, FAO, domestic & international institutes.

The event is witnessing hosting of over 40 sessions focusing on various aspects of the food processing industry, emphasising quality assurance and innovations in machinery and technology. The event is poised to host participants from over 90 countries globally, 1,000 buyers for the reverse buyer-seller meet and CEOs of prominent food processing companies.

Japan has collaborated with MoFPI as the partner country, while Vietnam and Iran are the event's focus countries. In terms of domestic participation, about 26 State & Union Territories are participating as well as 18 Union ministries and allied government bodies.