Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significant reforms undertaken by the Indian government over the past decade to boost the food processing sector, aiming to set global benchmarks for innovation, sustainability, and safety. In a message delivered at the third edition of World Food India 2024, held in the national capital from September 19 to 22, Modi highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming the sector and empowering small enterprises.
He underscored the introduction of key initiatives such as 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in food processing, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, the formalization of microfood processing enterprises, and the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for food processing industries. These reforms, he said, are creating a strong ecosystem of modern infrastructure, robust supply chains, and employment opportunities across the country.
The Prime Minister noted that the participation of over 90 countries in the event demonstrates World Food India 2024’s role as a vibrant platform for global leaders in the food industry, academia, and research to explore emerging opportunities. “India has a vibrant and diverse food culture. The backbone of the Indian food ecosystem is the farmer,” Modi said, emphasizing the government’s efforts to support farmers through innovative policies and focused implementation.
Modi also pointed to the government’s vision of empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly encouraging women to become microentrepreneurs. “We want our MSMEs to flourish and become an integral part of the global value chain,” he added.
He highlighted the importance of platforms like World Food India for fostering global collaboration through exhibitions, reverse buyer-seller meets, and sector-specific sessions. Additionally, the organization of the Global Food Regulators Summit by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is expected to bring together international regulators, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), to discuss critical issues such as food safety, quality standards, and best practices.
Modi expressed confidence that the summit would address key topics like food irradiation to enhance safety, plant-based proteins for better nutrition, and sustainability through the circular economy. He concluded with a call to work towards building a sustainable, safe, inclusive, and nutritious world, reflecting the broader vision for India’s food sector growth.
The event, held in the run-up to the festive season, positions India as a major player in the global food industry, with a focus on reforms aimed at long-term sustainability and growth.