SDG 2: Zero Hunger | SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institutions: Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) | NITI Aayog
The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-K), an Institute of National Importance under the MoFPI, celebrated its Convocation and Foundation Day, where dignitaries emphasized its pivotal role in transforming Indiaβs food processing ecosystem. The Principal Scientific Adviser urged graduates to use science, technology, and compassion to develop innovative, nutritious, and affordable food solutions, stressing the need for deep tech research in the sector.
NIFTEM-K reported significant achievements, including 17 patents filed, 18 technologies transferred, and support for 15 startups. The institute also contributed to rural empowerment by establishing FPOs under central schemes across multiple states and union territories, successfully linking innovation with grassroots agriculture and aligning the food sector with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
By fostering deep tech research and establishing FPOs, NIFTEM-K is actively translating academic innovation into rural economic output, directly addressing challenges of post-harvest loss, farmer income, and affordable nutrition through institutionalized, science-backed solutions.
What is a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO)? β It is a legal entity formed by a group of farmers and primarily managed by them, registered under relevant laws. FPOs function as collective business entities, providing members with end-to-end services such as procuring inputs, managing quality control, and linking to markets, which enhances their bargaining power and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can MoFPI scale the NIFTEM-K model of establishing FPOs to ensure a standardized national network that effectively links food technology to rural entrepreneurship?
Follow the full news here: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2176347