Kolkata : Department of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal in association with Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) concluded a three-day ‘Bengal Food & Fruit Festival’ on Sunday, 11th August 2024 at Netaji Indoor Stadium. The festival not only showcased Bengal’s vibrant agricultural diversity but also played a key role in promoting local produce, encouraging trade and strengthening industry connections.
Esteemed dignitaries including Arup Roy, Hon’ble Minister, Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, Pradip Kr Mazumdar, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Department of Panchayat, Rural Development & Cooperation, Government of West Bengal, Swati Bandyopadhyay, Special Secretary, Department of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal; Debasish Kumar, Member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly; and Madhuparna Bhowmick, Senior Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce, attended the event, celebrating and supporting the region’s agricultural achievements.
Approximately 15 districts participated in the festival with around 64 stalls exhibited. Howrah District was declared the winner among the stalls, while Malda District secured second place and Purba Medinipur was recognized with third place. Thousands of visitors attended the festival to explore and savor the traditional flavor of Bengal.
Arup Roy, Hon’ble Minister, Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal. Stated, ‘I am proud to showcase our state’s diverse agricultural and horticultural achievements. This festival not only highlights our rich variety of produce but also underscores our commitment to advancing the food processing industry. By highlighting our unique fruits and vegetables, we aim to support farmers, drive economic growth and enhance the overall agricultural landscape of West Bengal.’
Pradip Kr Mazumdar, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Department of Panchayat, Rural Development & Cooperation, Government of West Bengal, stated, ‘Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has emphasized that surplus production alone is not enough; we must also focus on improving farmers’ lifestyles. With over 130 crore people in the country, farmers are now able to provide two square meals a day for everyone. The goal is not just surplus production but meeting consumer demands effectively. Since we began cultivating Dragon Fruit in 2013, we have met consumer needs and currently cultivate four varieties of grapes at the Taldangra, Bankura research centre. We are also considering establishing a horticulture hub in Bankura and Purulia to enhance production, which will greatly benefit farmers. Let us continue to work together to advance the horticulture and food processing sectors and improve the lives of farmers.’
Debasish Kumar, Member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, stated, ‘Over the past three days, people from various districts have visited the Bengal Food and Fruit Festival with many setting up stalls to showcase their products. The success of such a festival is often measured by the sales generated during these days and I’m pleased to see that visitors have made numerous purchases. This platform has truly brought sellers and buyers together under one roof. Although the festival concludes today, I believe that every ending is a new beginning. I’m confident that the dedicated efforts of those working in this department will continue to lead us to success and make us all proud.’
Madhuparna Bhowmick, Senior Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce, stated, ‘At the Indian Chamber of Commerce, we are dedicated to empowering farmers and promoting growth in the food processing and horticulture sectors. We aim to bridge the gap between farmers and businesses, fostering collaboration and driving progress. Our goal is to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders and paves the way for a brighter future in Indian agriculture.’
