Union Minister Piyush Goyal Inaugurates ‘Indus Food 2024’ to Showcase India’s Culinary Diversity

Greater Noida: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles, Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the ‘Indus Food 2024’ exhibition, spotlighting India’s vibrant and diverse food ecosystem at the India Exposition Mart in Greater Noida. In his inaugural address, the Minister lauded India’s diverse food industry, expressing its potential to captivate global markets.

Highlighting India’s food processing sector, the minister noted the remarkable 150% growth in processed food exports over the last nine years. Emphasizing the fusion of technology and taste, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Minister stressed the importance of large-scale food processing, product branding, and export focus to benefit farmers, create employment, and boost the country’s earnings.

Recognizing the global demand for Indian foods, Goyal underscored India’s diverse agro-climatic zones, 158 food and agri Geographical Indications (GIs), and the identification of 708 unique food items under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.

Commending government initiatives like the ‘Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana,’ providing free food grains to 81 Crore people, and strategies to mitigate food inflation, Goyal acknowledged the role of social media and global influencers in promoting Indian culinary delights.

Highlighting the richness of Indian cuisine, Goyal urged the industry to focus on frozen, packaged, and ready-to-eat foods. He emphasized the role of women in the food sector, urging collaboration, cooperation, and a competitive spirit. The Minister encouraged industry efforts in quality, nutrition, organic ingredients, and eco-friendly packaging, emphasizing the importance of food nutrition and sustainability.