During last 10 years, we have introduced wide-ranging reforms to transform food processing sector: PM Modi

New Delhi [India], September 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his message at World Food India 2024, on Thursday conveyed greetings and best wishes to all the participants, highlighting the progress India made in the last 10 years for creating a strong ecosystem of modern infrastructure, robust supply chains and employment generation across the country.
The Prime Minister said that the participation of several nations showcases World Food India 2024 as a vibrant platform for the brightest minds from the global food industry, academia and research to make the most of increasing opportunities, share and engage in two-way learning from each other's experiences.
PM Modi stated that India has a vibrant and diverse food culture and lauded farmers who ensured the creation of nutritious and delicious traditions of culinary excellence.
"The backbone of the 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.
PM Modi in his message, further said that in the modern era, through progressive agricultural practices, strong administrative frameworks and cutting-edge technologies, 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, wide-ranging reforms were introduced to transform the food processing sector.
"Through multi-dimensional initiatives such as 100 per cent 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," said PM Modi.
He said that an important part of the vision was to empower small enterprises, adding that they wanted 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, World Food India is an ideal platform 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 the 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.
PM 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 realize the dream of building a sustainable, safe, inclusive and nutritious world," he said.
A high-level CEO roundtable under the co-chairpersonship of Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal and Minister, Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan was organized today. It laid focus on promoting investment and enhancing Ease of Doing Business and was attended by over 100 CXOs.
Addressing the gathering at World Food India 2024, Minister of New and Renewable Energy, and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad 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 emphasized ensuring the welfare of farmers through initiatives aimed at boosting incomes, improving access to technology and providing fair prices for their produce.
Union MoS Chirag Paswan mentioned that the 3rd edition of World Food India 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," he said.
Highlighting India's economic resilience and growth, Paswan mentioned that the food processing sector has become a key contributor to 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," he added.
Ravneet Singh in his address highlighted India's emergence as a global leader in the food processing sector, emphasizing 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 use 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 is going to serve 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 the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is being organized in conjunction with World Food India from 20th - 21st September 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 going to witness the hosting of over 40 sessions focusing on various aspects of the food processing industry, emphasizing quality assurance and innovations in machinery and technology. The event is poised to host participants from over 90 countries globally, 1000 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 28 State & 8 Union Territories are participating as well as 18 union ministries and allied government bodies.