Chirag Paswan Inaugurates SAPLING DIALOGUE

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India, in collaboration with the World Bank Group-led SAPLING initiative, inaugurated the Regional High-Level Policy Dialogue titled “Unlocking Value: Advancing Food Processing for Employment Generation and Sustainable Growth in South Asia” in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 9th June 2026.

The two-day regional dialogue brings together around 200 participants including policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, innovators, researchers, startups, and representatives from South Asian countries to deliberate on strengthening food processing ecosystems and building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems in the region.

Union Minister for Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan, while addressing the inaugural session, highlighted India’s growing role as a global food processing hub and emphasized the importance of value addition, technology adoption, and regional collaboration in transforming South Asia’s food economy.

The opening plenary featured participation from senior dignitaries including Mr. Paul Procee, Acting Country Director for India, World Bank; Ms. Archna Vyas, Country Director for India, Gates Foundation; and Avinash Joshi, Secretary, MoFPI..(UPDATED ON 9TH JUNE 2026)