Strengthening Indo-French Cooperation in Agro-processing Sector.

PIB Analysis
Ques. for Mains - Q1. Discuss various initiatives and measures adopted by the government to boost agro-processing sector since a decade. Analyse how further strengthening Indo-French Cooperation in Agro-processing Sector may boost India's economy?

Minister for Food Processing Industries, Government of India has reiterated the need to strengthen Indo-French cooperation in agro-processing sector during her recent visit to France. He was in France from 19-21, October 2014 to inaugurate the India pavilion at SIAL-2014 Food Fair being held in Paris from 19-23 October 2014.

The Minister met her French counterpart at the India pavilion. The two Ministers discussed issues of mutual interest and reiterated the strong desire of their respective governments to deepen the existing cooperation in the agro-processing sector. Minister also interacted with representatives of leading French companies in the Agro-Processing sector including Andros, Bongrain, Roquette and Sodiaal. Minister invited the French companies to take advantage of the large size and growth potential of the Indian market and the abundant availability of a variety of agricultural products by investing in Agro processing sector in India.

Minister delivered the key note address at the 3rd India France Agro Food Conference, organized by the Embassy of India, Paris in collaboration with the India-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Paris (CCIFI), which saw participation by over 60 Indian and French food producers, exporters, investors and traders. The theme of the conference was ‘New opportunities for manufacturing in the food processing sector in India’.