By Aparmita Das | NEW DELHI:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his inaugural address of the second edition of ‘World Food India 2023’ at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, emphasised the significant role of taste and technology in shaping India’s culinary landscape, underscoring the critical importance of food security and its nexus with technological advancements.
During his speech, the Prime Minister remarked, “Taste and technology fusion will pave a new way for India. Food security remains a major challenge, and this World Food Programme is of paramount importance.”
PM Modi highlighted the immense potential for companies and startups to contribute to the food sector, and he noted that urbanization in India has led to an increased demand for packaged foods, consequently fueling the growth of startups.
He further emphasized the key elements in the food processing sector, stating, “In the food processing sector, three key elements stand out: small farmers, small businesses, and women. Women-led development in the Indian economy is particularly impactful in the food processing industry. Women are running businesses from their homes, producing items like achar and papad. In this program today, more than 1 lakh women have received 1 crore of seed capital to further empower their entrepreneurial endeavors.”
PM Modi also celebrated India’s remarkable culinary diversity and its potential to contribute to the global food industry. He pointed out that India’s rich food heritage is closely intertwined with Ayurveda, offering a scientific knowledge base that can benefit the entire world. The Prime Minister stressed that India’s sustainable and healthy food practices should be embraced globally.
Comparing India’s influence on global wellness through Yoga, he suggested that millets have the potential to become a globally popular food item, contributing to sustainability goals, reduced food waste, and increased processing of perishable foods. PM Modi concluded by urging everyone to collaborate in achieving these important objectives.