The International Conference ANVESH 2026 concluded in Kundli, Sonipat on February 28, 2026, emerging as a major global platform showcasing next generation vision for emerging and sustainable healthy foods. The conference brought together the entire food processing ecosystem, including government agencies, start ups, industry leaders, exhibitors, eminent scientists, renowned chefs and participants committed to shaping the future of sustainable food systems.
The valedictory function was attended by Suresh Prabhu, former Minister for Commerce and Industry, who underscored the pivotal role of NIFTEM Kundli in driving innovation in the food processing sector. Reflecting on the institute’s 13 year journey, he said that through ANVESH 2026, NIFTEM Kundli is advancing a forward looking vision to redefine the food pyramid for the next generation of healthy and sustainable foods.
Asit Gopal, Special Secretary and Financial Adviser, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, highlighted that the vision of Viksit Bharat can be realised only through innovation, knowledge and entrepreneurship. Sanjay Singhania, Senior Vice President, Haldiram’s Group, urged young professionals and researchers at NIFTEM Kundli to create value at every stage of the food value chain, stating that the institute has the potential to transform waste into wealth. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM Kundli, presented a comprehensive overview of the conference’s achievements, outcomes and its growing global impact.
On the inaugural day, Chirag Paswan, Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, said the food processing sector will play a critical role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasised that for a country of 1.4 billion people, technology driven development is essential. He called for innovations, research and modern technologies to be extended to rural areas and farmers to bridge the development gap between villages and cities.
The conference featured extensive academic and industry engagement, including three panel discussions, 113 oral presentations, 115 invited talks and 226 poster presentations. Participation from 25 countries reflected the global scale and diversity of research and innovation showcased at the event.
Deliberations covered a wide range of critical and future oriented themes such as food innovation, safety, traceability and regulatory compliance; nutraceuticals and specialty foods; personalised nutrition and functional ingredients; sustainable food processing, waste valorisation and circular economy; post harvest technologies for waste reduction; alternate proteins and plant based foods with next generation smart and clean label technologies; digital transformation in food processing and supply chain management; and reimagining India’s higher education ecosystem through policy reforms, research innovation and industry collaboration.
A round table meeting involving more than 40 Vice Chancellors and Directors from leading academic and research institutions deliberated on academic reforms aimed at addressing skill development needs and strengthening industry academia collaboration.
ANVESH 2026 also hosted a large exhibition featuring 61 exhibitors, including corporates, start ups, MSMEs and government departments. The exhibition showcased advanced technologies, novel products and sustainable processing solutions, attracting strong interest from academia, industry and entrepreneurs exploring collaborative opportunities and technology adoption.
Adding a distinctive experiential component, the conference organised 22 live cookery shows that demonstrated innovative applications of emerging ingredients, plant based alternatives and nutritionally enhanced foods aligned with sustainability and health trends.
The conference witnessed participation from policymakers, global experts, researchers and innovators, recording more than 500 registered participants and over 2000 visitors. The scale of engagement underscored its standing as a premier international forum for sustainable food systems and healthy food innovation.
ANVESH 2026 successfully fostered dialogue, knowledge exchange and partnerships aimed at advancing sustainable food systems and next generation healthy food innovations, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in the global food processing and nutrition landscape.
