On October 16, 2024, NIFTEM-K observed World Food Day with various activities focused on food safety, nutrition, and strategies to reduce post-harvest losses. The event featured technical sessions, product showcases, recipe contests, and demonstrations of pilot plant technologies.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of the Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) theme for 2024, "Right to Food for a Better Life and Future." He highlighted how this theme encapsulates the core principles of food science, including food processing, fortification, and safety. Oberoi also mentioned NIFTEM-K's recent Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 11 companies and five academic institutions at World Food India 2024, held in New Delhi. These partnerships aim to boost research, innovation, and skill development within the Indian food processing sector.

Sh. G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), praised NIFTEM-K’s leadership in advancing innovative food safety research. Addressing the global population growth, projected at 8.4 billion with a 1.1% annual increase, Rao stressed the importance of ensuring food safety and nutritional quality, especially in light of the impact climate change has on agriculture. He emphasized the role of institutions like NIFTEM-K in addressing these global challenges and called for collaboration to ensure safe, nutritious food for all.

Sh. Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), served as the event’s chief guest and launched NIFTEM-K’s official song. Alam commended NIFTEM-K’s efforts to combat food waste and promote innovations in food processing. He remarked, “Aligned with MoFPI’s vision to enhance value addition, reduce wastage, and promote sustainable growth, NIFTEM-K is poised to offer solutions that benefit the Indian food industry.”

The event also featured key figures such as Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal, Vice Chancellor of SRM University, Sonipat, and Sh. Sanjai Singh Parmar, CEO of Cremica Food Park Pvt. Ltd.

The 2024 theme, "Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future," underscores the right to access nutritious, affordable, and sustainable food for all. This aligns with NIFTEM-K’s mission to foster innovation and research that contribute to food security and public well-being.

During technical sessions, industry experts, academic leaders, and R&D professionals discussed topics related to food security, sustainable food systems, and strengthening supply chains. These discussions were enriched by insights from executives of food companies, academics, research organizations, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and start-ups.

As NIFTEM-K continues to champion food safety and innovation, the event emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring a sustainable and nutritious future for everyone.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)