Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted the Indian government’s commitment to transforming the food processing sector through extensive reforms over the past decade. Addressing the third edition of World Food India 2024, which runs from September 19 to 22 in New Delhi, Modi's message was read aloud at the event, which sees participation from over 90 countries.
"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," Modi said.
The Prime Minister detailed several initiatives undertaken in the last ten years, including 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in food processing, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, the formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises, and the 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 added.
Modi praised World Food India 2024 as a significant platform for global food industry leaders, academics, and researchers. "The participation of several nations showcases this event as a vibrant platform for the brightest minds to seize increasing opportunities," he noted.
Emphasising India's rich food culture, Modi said, "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."
The Prime Minister also spoke about empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and encouraging women to become micro-entrepreneurs. "We want our MSMEs to flourish and become an integral part of the global value chain," Modi said.
World Food India 2024 will feature B2B interactions, exhibitions, reverse Buyer-Seller meets, and various country, state, and sector-specific sessions. Modi highlighted the Global Food Regulators Summit, organised by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which will bring together global regulators including WHO and FAO to discuss issues such as food safety, quality standards, and best practices.
"I am 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," Modi said. He concluded by calling for a collective effort to build a "sustainable, safe, inclusive, and nutritious world."
Follow us
