Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai held a courtesy meeting today with Union Minister for Food and Consumer Affairs, Chirag Paswan, at his office in New Delhi. The meeting focused on several public interest issues related to Chhattisgarh, with particular emphasis on food security, agriculture-based industries, and the growth of the food processing sector in the state.
Proposal for NIFTEM Institute in Chhattisgarh
During the meeting, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo highlighted the need to establish a branch of the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) in Chhattisgarh. He emphasized that such an institute would provide youth with advanced training in modern food technology, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities. “Chhattisgarh is an agriculturally rich state, and establishing NIFTEM here will directly benefit thousands of students and farmers,” the Chief Minister noted.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan responded positively to the proposal, assuring that the ministry would consider it seriously and provide all possible support to make it a reality.
Regional World Food India Summit in Raipur
The Chief Minister also proposed hosting a Regional World Food India Summit in Raipur. He highlighted that the city’s rich culinary heritage, excellent connectivity, and diversity make it an ideal venue for such a global food event. The summit, he suggested, could be modeled after the World Food India in Delhi or the North East Food Fest in Guwahati and could be organized every two years. The event would promote the region’s food traditions while providing opportunities for emerging food-based enterprises to grow.
Focus on Food Testing and Irradiation Units
CM Vishnu Deo requested central support for establishing state-of-the-art food testing laboratories and food irradiation units to ensure the safety and quality of food products. He noted that such infrastructure would strengthen consumer confidence and support the growth of agriculture and food-processing industries in the state.
Promoting Investment and Employment Opportunities
The Chief Minister highlighted that Chhattisgarh’s new industrial policy places special emphasis on food processing, offering additional incentives to attract investors. As part of this effort, Drools Company is investing ₹1,000 crore in the state, which is expected to generate employment for around 3,000 people, particularly in rural and tribal areas. CM Vishnu Deo emphasized that attracting large investors in rice, fruit, and vegetable-based industries would benefit farmers, women’s self-help groups, and rural communities.
Vision for Chhattisgarh as a Rice Bran Oil Hub
CM Vishnu Deo also outlined the state’s ambition to become a major hub for rice bran oil production, reducing dependence on imported oil and contributing to India’s self-reliance goals. He remarked, “A self-reliant Chhattisgarh and a developed India by 2047 is our shared vision, and these initiatives are crucial steps toward achieving it.”
Officials in Attendance
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Subodh Kumar Singh, Secretary Rahul Bhagat, and Investment Commissioner Ritu Sain, who actively participated in discussions on policy support and investment facilitation.
