During her talk to the FICCI Scientific Symposium on “Processed Foods for Purpose,” Anita Praveen, Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing, emphasised the critical importance of research and development (R&D) in promoting the Indian food processing sector.
Praveen emphasised the sector’s potential for significant growth and its standing as a key area in India’s agricultural landscape, as well as the necessity for it to focus on R&D in order to accelerate its trajectory.
“The food processing industry has emerged as a significant development driver. While we have achieved excellent growth with our current resources, there is an urgent need to shift our focus to R&D to catapult the industry to new heights,” she stated.
Praveen expanded on the importance of the food processing industry in promoting economic growth and generating job opportunities, particularly for micro and small businesses.
Furthermore, she underlined the sector’s strategic advantages, such as the ample supply of raw materials at affordable rates and the growing customer demand both domestically and globally.
“We are well-positioned, with enough raw materials accessible at competitive pricing and strong demand both locally and worldwide. This is an excellent time for the food processing business,” Praveen said.
Addressing the critical issue of eliminating food waste, Praveen emphasised the importance of comprehensive waste management systems that extend from farm to fork.
She also called for the merger of small enterprises with larger corporations to improve quality and optimise supply networks.
“Consumer education and quality assurance are essential. “Consumers deserve transparency about the products they consume, and the industry must maintain stringent quality standards,” she said.
Praveen also pushed for greater collaboration between large and small businesses to boost exports, highlighting the necessity of strict quality control and resilient supply chains. She emphasised the industry’s role in educating customers about food quality and safety, with a focus on increasing transparency and awareness.
The optimistic prediction is that the food processing sector’s production would exceed USD 600 billion by 2025-26, indicating a good development trajectory for India.