The Wheat Products Promotion Society (WPPS), the leading body for wheat and wheat-based industries since 1987, hosted a landmark conference in Hyderabad, uniting over 100 industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders. Held at Vivanta Hyderabad Begumpet, the event focused on tackling pressing challenges in pest management, food safety, and sustainability for the wheat milling industry.

In his opening address, Mr. Manish Gupta, President of the Telangana Roller Flour Mills Association, stressed the importance of technological advancements and sustainable practices to address the sector’s evolving demands. WPPS Chairman Mr. Ajay Goyal echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the Society's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration to overcome emerging challenges such as pest management and food safety.

Keynote and Technical Insights

The conference’s keynote speaker, Shri R.V. Karnan, IAS, Commissioner of Food Safety for Telangana, highlighted the critical role of food safety standards and regulatory compliance. His address underscored the need for unified efforts to meet global food safety requirements while advancing sustainable pest management practices.

The technical sessions offered actionable insights into modern practices:

• Grain Storage Evolution: Presented by Mr. Munishwar Vasudeva, Managing Director of Lotus Harvestec, focused on the role of automation in enhancing pest control and storage efficiency.
• Good Fumigation Practices: Delivered by Dr. GSS Prakash and Mr. Bhupendra Patil of Sandhya Group, offering strategies to improve fumigation methods.
• Sustainable Silo Storage: Dr. Anna-Maria Nunez Vega, CTO of Grain Technik Pvt. Ltd., highlighted eco-friendly technologies for grain storage.
• Innovative Methods: Mr. Praveen Gupta, Vice President of GrainPro India, introduced energy-efficient drying and storage techniques aimed at reducing waste.
• Chemical-Free Pest Control: Mr. Anil Bhat of Integro Engineers Pvt. Ltd. discussed heat treatments as alternatives to harmful chemicals.
• Integrated Pest Management: Presented by Mr. Ujjwal Kumar of E&G Pathway, showcasing automation and data-driven pest control strategies.

Sustainability as the Core Theme

Sustainability emerged as a central theme, with discussions focusing on reducing environmental impact while ensuring food safety and efficiency. Pest management consultant Mr. Siddharth Sarangpani emphasized the role of food safety audits in maintaining compliance and enhancing pest control effectiveness.

The conference concluded with a networking lunch, fostering collaboration and partnerships among participants. WPPS reaffirmed its dedication to driving innovation, sustainability, and growth in the wheat milling sector, ensuring its pivotal role in global food security.

About WPPS

Founded in 1987, the Wheat Products Promotion Society is the apex body representing India’s wheat-based industries. WPPS is committed to advancing the sector through advocacy, collaboration, and innovation, addressing challenges to ensure sustainable growth and global competitiveness.