The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, ceremoniously inaugurated the second edition of ‘World Food India 2023’ at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event, which took place on November 3, saw the esteemed presence of Union Cabinet Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, as well as Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Information & Broadcasting, Dr L. Murugan, alongside several other dignitaries.
One of the highlights of the inauguration was the unveiling of the Department of Fisheries pavilion at Pragati Maidan. Parshottam Rupala and Dr L. Murugan inaugurated the pavilion, where they explored a diverse range of exhibit stalls, featuring fish and fishery products in various forms, including canned, dried, and frozen items, value-added products, and millet-based fish products. This interactive showcase allowed the ministers to engage with entrepreneurs, gain insights into the evolving fishery industry, and appreciate the innovations on display.
Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, also joined in the tour of the exhibition stalls organized by the department at the World Food Expo. His interaction with the participants further emphasized the department's commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the sector.
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, played a vital role as a partner in the second edition of "World Food India 2023." In addition to the exhibition, the department organized a technical seminar session focused on "Global Food & Nutritional Security through Fisheries and Aquaculture." This session brought together renowned experts who explored emerging trends, technological advancements, and sustainable practices that are reshaping the food sector.
The technical sessions, held at Bharat Mandapm, featured notable speakers such as Dr. Dilip Kumar, Former Vice Chancellor of ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai; Dr. W. S. Lakra, Secretary of NAAS; Dr. M. Karthikeyan, Former Vice Chancellor of ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai; Dr. V. Kripa, Director of MPEDA; Jagdish V. Fofandi, President of SEAI; and Dr. Prithvi Rani, Research Officer in the Department of Fisheries. Their valuable insights and discussions contributed to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the fisheries and aquaculture industry.
The event served as a platform to foster collaborations, share knowledge, and drive innovation within the food industry, reaffirming India's position as a leader in the global food landscape.
