India’s food processing and ingredients sector is on an impressive growth path, projected to double by 2030 with an 8.8% CAGR. At the same time, the country’s food-tech segment is expanding at 14% CAGR, surpassing global benchmarks. Alongside this, the food processing equipment market is expected to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2033, while packaging machinery is set to cross USD 6.6 billion by 2030.

The growth story took center stage at the inaugural edition of Anuga FoodTec India and Anuga Select India 2025, held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. The event witnessed the presence of international dignitaries, including H.E. Ahmad Al Ahmari (Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia), H.E. Zozo Binti (D.R. Congo), H.E. Labane Gideon (Consul General of South Africa), H.E. Donnawit Poolsawat (Consul General of Thailand), Bastian Mingers (VP, Food Portfolio, Koelnmesse GmbH), and Milind Dixit (MD – India & SAARC, Koelnmesse Pvt Ltd).

Highlighting India’s strengths, Mr. Seetharaman Raghupathi, Executive Director, National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) said, “India’s food and beverage sector is growing rapidly, backed by 180 million hectares of arable land, food processing valued at ₹75 trillion, and food expenditure making up over 40% of consumer spend. Dairy contributes 25% of this sector, with India producing one-fourth of the world’s milk, worth ₹12 trillion. With 17 million farmers across 235,000 villages, 35% of whom are women, dairy cooperatives return 75% of the consumer rupee, channelling ₹2.1 billion daily into the rural economy. Initiatives like White Revolution 2.0, which aims to establish 75,000 new cooperatives by 2028–29, will further boost this growth”.

The twin expos are hosting over 1,100 exhibitors across 55,000 sqm, with participation from 65 countries, and are expected to attract 60,000 visitors across three days. Covering the entire food and beverage value chain, the events serve as a platform for cutting-edge innovations, global collaborations, and knowledge exchange.

Organized by Koelnmesse India, these exhibitions are designed to accelerate South Asia’s F&B growth by fostering innovation and building international trade partnerships.

About Anuga FoodTec India:

 Anuga FoodTec India is part of Koelnmesse’s portfolio of world-leading trade fairs in food and beverage processing. The event extends the global reputation of Anuga FoodTec and ProSweets Cologne into the Indian market. With its strong international network, Koelnmesse continues to deliver bespoke events across key markets worldwide.

About Anuga Select India:

Anuga Select India is Koelnmesse’s leading trade fair focusing on food and beverage markets, connecting global players with India’s fast-growing sector. It draws on the strength of renowned international events like Anuga and ISM, while enabling regional partnerships across multiple continents.

Government of India's think tank NITI Aayog has recommended the introduction of a single-window clearance system for homestay registrations to unlock the potential of alternative accommodation in India’s growing tourism industry.

The proposal comes as part of its report, Rethinking Homestays: Navigating Policy Pathways, released by Vice Chairman Suman Bery. The report highlights that the registration process should be simplified, requiring only essential documents such as ownership proof, applicant identification, and GST registration.

To ensure better coordination, the Aayog has also suggested the establishment of a central nodal agency that would streamline communication between departments, stakeholders, and policymakers. This unified approach would help in policy implementation, marketing, and resource allocation.

The report stresses that financial incentives should be destination-focused, promoting tourism development at regional levels instead of focusing only on individual homestay amenities. It further recommends collaborative marketing by state governments to showcase unique regional offerings and support lesser-known destinations through homestays that provide authentic, community-driven experiences.

At the 18th CII Annual Tourism Summit, Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, echoed the need to expand tourism infrastructure to address rising demand. He outlined a three-pronged strategy for states, granting infrastructure status, rationalizing norms, and simplifying clearances. He also emphasized the importance of increasing international tourism and promoting India globally.

Reports indicate that India’s homestay market reached Rs 4,722 crore in 2024, reflecting strong recovery post-pandemic. The sector’s growth has been driven by booming domestic tourism and changing travel preferences toward experiential stays and unexplored destinations.

The Aayog emphasized the importance of transparent, light-touch regulatory frameworks to ensure safety, protect heritage, and promote inclusive and sustainable growth. With domestic tourism driving recovery and alternative accommodations gaining traction, homestays represent a major economic opportunity for India’s tourism future.

 Go Cheese, one of India’s most popular dairy brands under Parag Milk Foods Ltd., has teamed up with Sony Entertainment Television’s hit dance reality show Super Dancer Chapter 5. The association brings together two family favourites the energetic spirit of the show and the indulgent taste of Go Cheese.

The season, which premiered last month, has already won hearts with its powerful theme that celebrates the bond between mothers and children. With moms positioned as the biggest supporters of their kids’ dreams, the show is packed with entertainment, emotional moments, and jaw-dropping performances by young talents.

This theme resonates strongly with Go Cheese, which has always positioned itself as a brand that strengthens family moments, whether it’s enjoying cheesy snacks or making everyday meals special.

Sharing her thoughts on the collaboration, Ms. Akshali Shah, Executive Director, Parag Milk Foods Ltd., said, “Go Cheese has always been about bringing families together through great taste and shared moments. Our association with Super Dancer Chapter 5 is a natural extension of our connection with modern families, especially mothers who strive to nurture talent and celebrate their children’s uniqueness. We are thrilled to be part of a show that combines entertainment, emotion, and inspiration, all values that resonate deeply with our brand”.

Throughout the season, viewers can expect to see creative integrations of Go Cheese  from branded challenges to snackable segments and seamless product placements. The goal is to showcase how Go Cheese effortlessly elevates everyday dining and fun family occasions.

With Super Dancer Chapter 5 lighting up living rooms across the country on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV, this partnership reflects Go Cheese’s mission of connecting with Indian families through stories, taste, and shared experiences.

About Go Cheese

 Go Cheese is a leading cheese brand from Parag Milk Foods Ltd., loved for its wide range of premium offerings. Known for innovation and quality, it continues to turn everyday meals into delicious experiences for households across India.

About Parag Milk Foods Ltd.

Founded in 1992, Parag Milk Foods is India’s largest private dairy FMCG company. With a robust distribution network, 5 lakh+ retail touch points, and iconic brands like Gowardhan, Go, Pride of Cows, and Avvatar, the company is at the forefront of dairy innovation. Go Cheese holds over 35% market share in the consumer cheese segment, making it a leader in both HORECA and retail categories.