The Indian Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, organised a conclave on Food Processing in Aizawl on Tuesday.

In his welcoming address, Ishantor Sobhapandit, Regional Director-NER of Indian Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the pivotal role of food processing in enhancing farmers’ income by providing better prices for their produce.

He underscored the need to address challenges in marketing products nationally and internationally to unlock the full potential of the sector. Sobhapandit highlighted various schemes offered by the Food Processing Technology ministry that can support new ventures in the field.

Drawing attention to the geographical advantage of the North East region, Sobhapandit noted its proximity to neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. He informed the audience about the accessibility of Chittagong and Mongla ports in Bangladesh for exporters from the North East, facilitating global market access.

Speaking at the conclave, L Lalhmingmawia, Additional Director, Department of Horticulture, Government of India, praised Mizoram’s adoption of natural farming practices, emphasising its relevance on a global scale. Lalhmingmawia highlighted the potential of high-value fruits and vegetables such as Bird’s Eye Chilli, Ginger, Passion Fruit, and Bamboo Shoots to command lucrative prices in both national and international markets through proper processing and marketing.

He further emphasised the significance of food processing in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, particularly in alleviating hunger and minimising post-harvest losses.

Elizabeth Lalremthangi Hmar, Joint Director of Industries and Commerce, Government of Mizoram, provided a comprehensive overview of the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) initiative. Additionally, experts from various organisations, including the Mizoram State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MZSRLM), Mizoram University, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), and Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), presented detailed insights on new food processing technologies.

The Conclave witnessed participation from a diverse audience comprising entrepreneurs, Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), senior government officials, and businesspersons, reflecting the widespread interest and importance of the food processing sector in Mizoram.