The Journey of Becoming a Global Food Basket
In the ever-evolving landscape of food security and global connectivity, India has long been striving to become not just a food source, but a global food basket. This narrative is being pushed further by the organization SUFALAM 2025, which marks its second successful event as a start-up forum, collaborating with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM)-Kundli. As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges, this initiative underscores India’s vision to emerge as a leader in sustainable food development.
The Heartbeat of SUFALAM 2025
SUFALAM 2025 is a two-day event that has redefined the concept of innovation for startups. Organized by MoFPI and NIFTEM-K, this event marks a significant step forward for India’s food processing sector. With over 500 participants from across states, including industry leaders, academicians, investors, and budding entrepreneurs, SUFALAM 2025 was a testament to collaboration and mutual learning.
The first day began with a heartfelt pep talk by young entrepreneurs, sharing their journeys and innovative ideas. This segment not only set the tone for the event but also reminded participants of the potential they hold for their startups. The second day marked a shift toward sustainable practices, with Dr. T. Prasad, an esteemed academic at IIM Mumbai, delivering a motivational session on staying resilient in the start-up world.
From Government Funding to Sustainable Practices
The latter half of SUFALAM 2025 delved into practical solutions for fostering growth and resilience. Mr. Sanjay Khajuria, former Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Nestle Ltd., introduced a key figure in this space with his insights on the PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFPE) Scheme. This event not only elevated the government’s role but also provided a platform for early leaders to grasp its significance.
The panel discussion, led by Dr. Subrata Gupta, highlighted the PMFPE Scheme as a powerful tool for supporting micro-enterprises. The technology transfer agreements between NIFTEM-K and FICSI were a highlight of the event, showcasing innovative solutions in food processing that are being leveraged both domestically and internationally.
The Real-World Experience
What started as an online event quickly evolved into a hands-on experience. Over 2,600 participants joined via YouTube channel of NIFTEM-K, engaging with real experts and professionals. The guided tour of the campus offered a tangible glimpse into food processing research and innovation, allowing delegates to observe cutting-edge technologies in action.
The Impact of SUFALAM 2025
SUFALAM 2025 has had a transformative impact on India’s food processing industry. It not only solidified the government’s commitment to fostering innovation but also inspired a new generation of leaders and change makers. The event highlighted how collaboration, education, and mentorship can propel startups to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
As we move forward in this journey, SUFALAM 2025 serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that innovation is key to building a resilient and inclusive global food system. With participants from all walks of life at their table, SUFALAM 2025 has not only transformed the industry but also redefined the possibilities for the next generation of leaders.
In celebration of this historic event, we look forward to seeing how it will continue to inspire and guide future generations of entrepreneurs in India. Together, let us take pride in our shared journey toward becoming a global food basket, where every cup matters.