FTCCI Hosts Panel on Food Processing: Key to Boosting Farmer

FTCCI Hosts Panel on Food Processing: Key to Boosting Farmer Incomes and Industry Growth

By Author

Published on February 17, 2025

The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), in association with Food Tech and Snack & BakeTec, organized a panel discussion on “Food Processing Industry—Facilitation, Infrastructure & Technology” at Radisson Blu on Thursday night.

The discussion focused on government facilitation, infrastructure development, and technology adoption in the food processing sector.

Dr. E. Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, IFS, Special Secretary, Investment Promotion & External Engagement & VC & MD of Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC), Government of Telangana, was the Chief Guest. The event also featured prominent speakers from government institutions such as APEDA, FSSAI, TGFPS, and TGIIC, along with key industry representatives from Telangana.

Food Processing: A Crucial Growth Driver

Dr. Reddy emphasized that food processing plays a critical role in increasing farmers' incomes by adding value to their produce. “Every government aims to boost farmer earnings, and without developing food processing, this goal may not be achieved,” he stated. He also highlighted post-harvest food grain wastage as a significant concern.

The Telangana government is committed to establishing an industrial zone outside RRR with a focus on the MSME sector, particularly food processing industries. “While the government aims to set up food processing units near the source of raw materials, industries often prefer locations closer to consumers to reduce logistics costs. We are working to maintain a fine balance between these priorities,” Dr. Reddy added. He also encouraged industry stakeholders to engage with the Telangana Food Processing Society, a government initiative supporting the sector.

Opportunities for Growth

India’s food and beverage packaging industry is projected to grow from $33.7 billion in 2023 to $46.3 billion by 2028. The panelists noted that strategic government and industry collaboration could drive sustainable growth in this sector, expanding both domestic and global markets.

The discussion was moderated by Sri S. Chandra Mohan, Chair, Agro and Food Processing Committee, and Managing Director of Sahasra Crop Science Pvt. Ltd. Panelists included:

Sri R. P. Naidu, Regional Director, APEDA, Telangana
Sri K. Balunaik, Deputy Director, FSSAI, Telangana
Smt. G. Sushma, Director (Business Development), TGFPS
Sri G. V. K. Naidu, Founder & CMD, Sam Agritech Limited
Sri Mukunda Jandhyala, CEO, Jandhyala India Foods

The Need for a Robust Food Processing Industry

In his welcome address, Mr. Ravi Kumar, Senior Vice President of FTCCI, underscored the food processing industry’s crucial role in economic development. He pointed out that although India has achieved self-sufficiency in food production, post-harvest losses remain a challenge. Currently, food processing in India accounts for only a small fraction of total agricultural output:

Fruits: 4.5%
Vegetables: 2.7%
Milk: 21.1%
Meat: 34.2%
Fish: 15.4%

“A strong food processing sector, supported by advanced techniques, can reduce waste, enhance value addition, promote crop diversity, increase farmer incomes, create employment, and boost export revenue,” Mr. Kumar noted.

Sri K.K. Maheshwari, Vice President of FTCCI, concluded the event with a vote of thanks.

With increasing focus on technology and infrastructure, the food processing industry in Telangana is poised for transformative growth, driving economic benefits for both farmers and businesses alike.

PGC Chennai Presents HE Awards – Honouring the Strength, Stories, and Spirit of Men in Society

By Author

Published on July 9, 2025

In a landmark moment for Ponneri and beyond, the Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC) made history by hosting the first-ever HE Awards, a heartfelt tribute to the spirit, resilience, and role of men in shaping our communities. The event, presented by PGC in collaboration with Hospitalitynews, was held on July 4th, 2025, and marked a powerful beginning to what promises to be a prestigious annual tradition.

The evening welcomed over 300 distinguished guests and honored 25 exemplary men from diverse backgrounds—fathers, professionals, leaders, mentors—whose contributions often go unnoticed but are deeply felt within the fabric of society.

Gracing the celebration as Chief Guest was His Highness Mohammed Asif Ali, the Prince of Arcot, whose presence added regal dignity to the occasion. Echoing the sentiment of the evening were esteemed guests Assistant Commissioner of Ponneri, Mr. Shankar, and MLA Mr. Durai Chandrasekhar, who in their powerful keynote address stated, “Honouring good men is not just about what they do, but who they choose to be every day – leaders, fathers, brothers, mentors, and pillars of society.”

The ambiance at PGC was truly celebratory, showcasing its grandeur with 178 rooms, 4 banquet halls, 2 sprawling lawns, and over 12 sports amenities—firmly positioning it as not just a club, but a premium destination for weddings, corporate gatherings, and lifestyle events.

The event was supported by TJS College of Arts & Science and Big Screen, and was expertly curated by Sonali Jain and Kashish Jain, who brought the evening to life with emotion, elegance, and purpose.

The night concluded with standing ovations, soulful music, and a clear promise—that the HE Awards, in partnership with Hospitalitynews, will return every year to shine a light on the quiet strength and positive influence of men in our society.

Because when we honour goodness, we inspire greatness—and the HE Awards are just the beginning.

About PGC Chennai:
Located just 40 minutes from Chennai, the Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC) is one of Tamil Nadu’s largest and most vibrant private clubs. With luxurious accommodation, top-tier sports facilities, banquet halls, and picturesque lawns, PGC is redefining what it means to blend hospitality, leisure, and community. Whether you're planning a dream wedding, corporate retreat, or simply a weekend escape, PGC offers an unmatched experience of celebration and serenity. Learn more at www.pgcchennai.com.

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PGC Presents the First-Ever HE Awards in Association with Hospitalitynews – Join Us to Celebrate Unsung Heroes on July 4th!

By Author

Published on July 2, 2025

This Friday, July 4th, 2025, the Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC), in collaboration with Hospitalitynews, is all set to host the first-ever edition of the HE Awards (Honouring Excellence Awards)—an inspiring evening dedicated to recognizing individuals who have selflessly served society.

With the theme “They Deserve Their Moment,” the event promises to be a grand tribute to Professors, Doctors, Police personnel, Government Officials, Social Workers, and many more everyday heroes whose dedication often goes unrecognized.

The event will take place at the Ponneri Gymkhana Club, with proud support from TJS College of Arts & Science and Hospitalitynews as the official media partner.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, 4th July, 2025
Time: Starting from 3:00 PM
Venue: Ponneri Gymkhana Club

This is your chance to witness an evening filled with heartfelt stories, inspiring achievements, and community appreciation. Come be part of this meaningful celebration and show your support for the people who make a real difference in our lives.

For RSVP and More Information:

+91 75502 65615 / +91 93636 32829
Follow on Instagram: @ponnerigymkhanaclub

Let’s come together to celebrate those who deserve their moment in the spotlight!