The esteemed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the notable 'World Food India 2023' event at New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan. Amidst the fanfare, he disbursed Seed Capital Assistance to over one lakh Self Help Group (SHG) members, fortifying the framework for women-led development within the nation's thriving food processing sector.

The event, marking 2023 as the International Year of Millets, positions India as a global 'food basket' and recognizes the sector's ascent as a sunrise industry. Prime Minister Modi acclaimed the confluence of technology and traditional culinary arts, envisioning its integral role in sculpting the future economy and addressing the global challenge of food security.

"World Food India is paving the way for our food processing sector, attracting over Rs 50,000 crores in foreign direct investments," said Shri Modi, commending the government's policies nurturing the industry. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme's success was underscored, alongside the investment in post-harvest infrastructures surpassing Rs 50,000 crores under the Agri-Infra Fund.

India's strides in food processing were highlighted, from expanding mega food parks to exporting unique agricultural products. Shri Modi's address paid homage to India's women, recognizing their indelible mark on the industry and the significance of empowering over one lakh women through seed capital disbursal.

The cultural tapestry of India's diverse food heritage was praised by the Prime Minister, who linked sustainable food habits to Ayurvedic traditions and global food security. Aligning with the G-20 Delhi declaration, he advocated for sustainable agriculture and nutrition security, emphasizing technology's role in reducing post-harvest losses.

With the presence of Union Ministers and the signing of 16 MoUs amounting to Rs 17,990 crores, World Food India 2023 represents a collaborative leap forward in the food processing industry. The Roundtable discussion, co-chaired by Union Ministers, fostered dialogue on ease of doing business and investment within this burgeoning sector.