CII Karnataka Food Processing & Agri Conclave Agri Next: Sustainable growth through Innovation, Quality & Competitiveness

Bengaluru, August 5, 2025 –

The CII Karnataka Agri & Food Processing Panel hosted the CII Karnataka Food Processing & Agri Conclave 2025 at the Hotel Royal Orchid, Bengaluru. The event, themed “Agri Next: Sustainable growth through Innovation, Quality & Competition,” brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the future of the state’s agriculture and food processing sectors.

Karnataka, known as India’s “Knowledge and Innovation Capital,” is a key player in agri-tech and food processing. The conclave focused on a wide range of topics, including sustainable farming, policy reforms, export potential for processed goods, and the role of technology like AI, IoT, and blockchain in supply chain management. Discussions also covered financing for agri-startups, opportunities in mega food parks, and regulatory compliance with FSSAI and ISO standards.

Dr S V Suresha, Vice Chancellor, University of Agri Sciences, Government of Karnataka highlighted the critical importance of modernizing India’s food grain sector. He referenced, “The next two years are crucial for strategic interventions. The need for high-quality raw materials and, most urgently, for a robust food processing infrastructure is crucial. India currently loses one-third of its food grains due to inadequate processing, with only two-thirds being integrated into formal channels. A call to action is needed to reduce food waste, enhance value addition, and build a more resilient food supply chain. Investing in Food & Agri Infrastructure should be a National Priority to Reduce Waste and Boost Supply, The university is also supporting this mission through ongoing outreach programs and collaborations, including a monthly outreach program every second Saturday and various initiatives by the Karnataka Government Agricultural University to empower farmers and advance agricultural technology.”

Mr M H Banthanal, Director, Watershed Department, Government of Karnataka mentioned the “Role of integrated watershed development is crucial in fostering sustainable agriculture and empowering rural communities across Karnataka. The department’s comprehensive approach integrates soil conservation, water harvesting, and vegetation management, particularly in drought-prone regions. The importance of involving local communities, including farmers and women’s groups, in the planning and execution of projects is an important step. The department is leveraging technology like remote sensing and GIS to monitor outcomes, and has successful case studies that have resulted in improved groundwater levels and increased agricultural incomes. To further these goals, initiatives such as monthly “Second Saturday Programs” for farmer education and collaborations with the Karnataka Government Agricultural University on research and pilot projects.”

Dr. Tanay Joshi, Director – Agriculture and Livelihoods Social Sector at Ernst & Young LLP, emphasized that “India stands at a pivotal moment in the global food processing landscape. Despite being the second-largest producer of food grains, fruits, and vegetables, India processes 10% of its agricultural yield. The supportive government policies, a young population, and digital growth are key drivers & Karnataka’s “Millet Valley” initiative is a model for success. With tools like the T.R.A.C.E. Framework—encompassing traceability, responsive retail, assured demand, clean label compliance, and export positioning to boost the sector, & collaboration between government, startups, and institutions can overcome infrastructure and regulatory challenges”.

Mr Rabindra Srikantan, Chairman, CII Karnataka State Council & Managing Director ASM Technologies Ltd highlighted the impactful work of CII, “As we speak of transformation, CII’s Centre of Excellence – FACE (Food and Agriculture Centre of Excellence) – has been doing commendable work nationally by promoting food safety, traceability, agri-tech adoption, and building capacity across the value chain. The centre has been instrumental in supporting food enterprises with knowledge, standards, and partnerships. We are also working closely with various departments to bring FACE’s resources and frameworks to Karnataka in a more direct and impactful way. Beyond agriculture, CII Karnataka is driving a broader agenda centered on innovation and research. We are proud that Karnataka is the first state in the country to notify an R&D policy, and CII has been an active partner in building dialogue around its implementation”

Mr Shardul Kshirsagar, Convenor CII Karnataka Food Processing & Agri Panel & MD & CEO, Fowlerwestrupp in his address mentioned “The CII Karnataka Food Processing & Agri Conclave 2025 in Bengaluru today spotlighted Karnataka’s strengths, including its leadership in coffee, rose onions, and gherkins, and progressive policies like the Raitha Samruddhi Yojane, Krishi Bhagya, and the state’s Food Processing Policy. With infrastructure like five operational food parks, a mega food park in Tumkur, 150+ cold storage units, and incentives under the Industrial Policy 2025–2030. This unique platform would provide a meeting ground for all the relevant stakeholders to deliberate on issues of salience to help together form a Roadmap of Growth & Development in the Food Processing & Agri Sector in the state of Karnataka”.

Mr Rajan Aggarwal, Co- Convenor CII Karnataka Food Processing & Managing Director, AGI Milltec in concluding remarks said “The key objective of this years’s conclave is to initaite meaningful step towards transforming Agri & Food Processing landscape by fostering collaboration among leaders, policy makers and key stakeholders, we beleive a strong foundation will be laid. The sector is on a tranformative role to a strategic imperative. But we require a commited acceleration of efforts as we address newer challenges, such as, Climate Change, Urbanization, it is imperative to have sustainable practices, aided with Technology to confront these areas”.The CII Karnataka Agri & Food Processing Panel, attended by over 100 participants across the industry , was a powerful testament to Karnataka’s ambition and collective resolve to transform its agricultural and food processing landscape. With strong governmental backing, innovative private sector engagement, and a clear vision for the future, the state is poised to overcome existing challenges and emerge as a global leader in the sector. The collaborative spirit fostered at the panel, focusing on technology, equitable access, and sustainable growth, reinforces the shared commitment to ensuring quality, affordable, and accessible food for every citizen, truly making Karnataka a solution provider to the world. Notable attendees included Karnataka State Agricultural Produce Processing and Export Corporation Limited, Fowler Westrup (India) Pvt Ltd, AGI Milltec, Manjushree Technopack Ltd, Maa Integrators, Nandus, Rinac, Kalbavi Consumer Foods Private Limited, General Aeronautics, AkshayaKalpa, Aahaara Foods