The city of Hyderabad is gearing up to host the prestigious 2nd National Spice Conference (NSC) on November 18th and 19th. This significant event, organized by the World Spice Organization (WSO) in partnership with the All-India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF), marks a pivotal moment in the Indian spice industry. The conference, a gathering of industry experts, farmer producers, and trade professionals, is poised to be a melting pot of ideas and innovations in the realm of spice production and trade.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Growth
The WSO, as the driving force behind the NSC, has joined hands with notable organizations such as GIZ and IDH – the Sustainable Trade Initiative, with the Rainforest Alliance stepping in as the sustainability partner. This collaboration underscores the conference’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the spice industry.
Focus on Food Safety and Farmer Income
Centering around the theme of “Food Safe Spices: The Way Forward to a Stable & Sustainable Income” the conference aims to delve deep into the nuances of the spice supply chain. The agenda is set to offer a comprehensive 360° perspective on food safety and its crucial impact on income and profitability for those involved in the spice trade.
In-depth Sessions and Discussions
The NSC will feature various sessions addressing key areas such as sustainable farming practices, technological advancements in agriculture, compliance with food safety standards, and funding opportunities for farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). These discussions are expected to shed light on improving productivity, innovative market trends, and better input management.
A Message from the Chairman
Ramkumar Menon, Chairman of the World Spice Organization, emphasized the conference’s focus on enhancing the positive impacts of food safety on farmer income and profitability. “The future of the food and agriculture sector hinges on the stabilization of farmer income, which is subject to fluctuation for various reasons,” he stated. Menon highlighted the importance of farm revenue stability in ensuring sustainable food production to meet the demands of a growing population.
Representing the Farming Community
The event will see participation from FPOs and NGOs representing nearly 25,000 farmers associated with the National Sustainable Spice Program (NSSP), another flagship initiative of the WSO. This program is dedicated to increasing the production of food-safe and sustainable spices in India and ensuring market access for these responsibly produced goods.
Conclusion
The 2nd National Spice Conference in Hyderabad is more than just a meeting; it’s a beacon of hope and direction for the future of the spice industry in India. By focusing on food safety, sustainable practices, and farmer income, the conference aims to pave the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for all stakeholders in this vital sector.