[1]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom Sikkim to the National Stage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAt the vibrant stalls of the One District One Product<\/strong> initiative, the Sikkim State Pavilion<\/strong> showcases distinctive flavours from the Himalayan state, attracting visitors and buyers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAmong the participants is Sangidoma Bhutia<\/em><\/strong>, an entrepreneur<\/strong> from Gangtok, Sikkim<\/strong>, whose journey reflects how government support is facilitating small food businesses to grow. Sangidoma began her entrepreneurial journey nearly 16 years ago<\/strong>, producing traditional Sikkimese food products<\/strong> on a small scale. In the early years, she relied entirely on her personal savings to sustain the business. Now, she runs the brand \u201cTaste of Sikkim,\u201d<\/strong> known for its traditional pickles. Along with producing pickles, she, as a master trainer, also trains rural women<\/strong> in food processing skills, creating new opportunities for them to earn and become self-reliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\nA major breakthrough in her journey came when she availed the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises <\/strong>(PMFME) Scheme<\/strong>, a flagship Central Government initiative that supports small food processing businesses. She availed a loan of \u20b9<\/strong>10 lakh<\/strong>, which enabled her to invest in modern processing equipment and expand the production capacity. She also received a subsidy of \u20b9<\/strong>3.5 lakh<\/strong>, making it easier for her to repay the loan and manage her enterprise with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\nReflecting on her journey, Ms. Sangidoma recalls that her business started on a very small scale. \u201cAfter receiving the loan, I could invest in machinery and expand my production. The scheme has opened new opportunities for entrepreneurs like me, especially women with fewer financial resources.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nHer enterprise focuses on value-added products made from Sikkim\u2019s famous organic \u2018Dalle Khursani\u2019<\/em> chilli<\/strong>, which carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag<\/strong>. The chillies are sourced directly from local farmers and processed into products such as fermented chilli pickles, spice mixes, and blended condiments<\/strong>. The product range also incorporates locally grown fruits such as lapsi (plum)<\/strong>, combined with the distinctive flavour of Dalle chilli<\/em> to create unique regional delicacies. She explains<\/p>\n\n\n\n\u201cOur products are unique to Sikkim. People in big cities are very curious to try them and appreciate the authentic taste.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nWith the policy support, she has taken her products to several cities across India, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Maharashtra, <\/strong>and Arunachal Pradesh. <\/strong>At AAHAR 2026, Sangidoma is participating for the first time and aspires to return again<\/strong> next year.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTraceability and Quality Innovation in India\u2019s Tea Value Chain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nIn a conversation with Dheeraj Arjun K S<\/strong>, a representative of Iron Kettle<\/strong>, a tea brand from Karnataka, shared insights about the company\u2019s focus on transparency, traceability, and quality sourcing in the tea supply chain. Iron Kettle offers tea across three main categories: CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) chai sourced from Assam<\/strong>, a range of flavoured and green teas, and a specialised Sanjeevani<\/em> green tea line. Quality sourcing is central to the company\u2019s model. The company operates with a head office in Bengaluru<\/strong>, Karnataka,<\/strong> while processing facilities are located in Assam and the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu,<\/strong> near the sourcing regions. It holds several certifications, including Rainforest Alliance, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), and ISO (International Organization for Standardization)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\u201cHand-plucking \u2018two leaves and a bud\u2019 takes more effort and results in lower yield, but it produces a much better cup of tea,\u201d says Dheeraj Arjun K. S. \u201cThat is why we offer premium prices to farmers who maintain higher fine-leaf standards.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nTo ensure quality standards, the company deploys agronomy officers in Assam and the Nilgiris<\/strong> who work directly with farmers and provide training on cultivation practices, pesticide usage, and plucking techniques. New farmers joining the network undergo one to two months of guidance and observation<\/strong> to ensure adherence to quality protocols.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIron Kettle<\/strong> has introduced a QR-code-based traceability system to enhance transparency in the tea supply chain. Each retail tea pack carries a unique QR code that allows consumers to trace their tea’s journey, from farm to cup.<\/strong> By scanning the code, consumers can access detailed information, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nthe name of the farmer,<\/li>\n\n\n\n the farm’s geo-tagged location,<\/li>\n\n\n\n the exact date and time of plucking,<\/li>\n\n\n\n the time the leaves reached the factory, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n details of cultivation practices, such as pesticide use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nThis digital traceability model strengthens consumer trust and promotes accountability across the value chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Participating in AAHAR 2026 for the first time<\/strong>, the company sees the exhibition as an opportunity to introduce its traceable tea model to a wider audience. The dedicated efforts highlight how digital traceability, farmer-centric sourcing, and quality-driven pricing can reshape agricultural value chains while building stronger consumer trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\nA Spice Enterprise from Kanpur Expanding Its Reach<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSubash Agro Industry Pvt Ltd<\/strong>, a spice manufacturing company based in Kanpur,<\/strong> Uttar Pradesh,<\/strong> reflects the journey and steady growth of small- and medium-sized food processing enterprises in India. Established in 1992, the enterprise began by producing essential spices commonly used in Indian kitchens. Over the past three decades, it has gradually expanded its operations and built a strong network of distributors and retail partners across several states. Today, the company produces a wide range of kitchen staples, including turmeric, coriander, chilli, <\/strong>and blended spices.<\/strong> According to Jitendra Mohan Tiwari<\/strong>, a representative of Subash Agro Industry Pvt Ltd<\/strong>, mentioned that the company also supplies seasoning blends<\/strong> to snack manufacturers, particularly for products such as namkeen. Over time, the enterprise has diversified its product portfolio beyond spices to include papad, pickles, agarbatti, dhoop sticks, hing, <\/strong>and soy nuggets (soya badi).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\u201cToday, we offer more than 100 products while maintaining high standards of aroma, purity, and freshness in every pack,\u201d says Jitendra Mohan Tiwari.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nIts products are distributed across several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, <\/strong>and Uttarakhand<\/strong> through an established network of distributors and retailers. Participation in AAHAR 2026 provides the company with an opportunity to showcase its product range, connect with potential buyers, and explore new market opportunities within India\u2019s growing food processing sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom Fresh Fruits to Frozen Innovations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAmong the enterprises attracting attention at AAHAR 2026 is Ganpati Frozen World<\/strong>, based in Nagpur. Mr. Gaurav, a representative<\/strong>, mentioned that the company represents a growing segment of businesses focusing on value-added fruit ingredients<\/strong> for the food processing and hospitality sectors. Founded around eight years ago<\/strong>, the enterprise initially focused on processing seasonal fruits<\/strong> and converting them into convenient, ready-to-use ingredients<\/strong> for businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOver time, it has developed a diverse product portfolio that includes frozen fruit pulps<\/strong>, fruit shots, kulfi premixes, <\/strong>and frozen berries<\/strong>, widely used in beverages, desserts, and processed food products. By transforming fresh fruits into frozen pulps and ingredients, the company enables food manufacturers to access fruit flavours year-round<\/strong>, regardless of seasonal availability.<\/p>\n\n\n\nProducts such as Alphonso mango pulp, custard apple pulp, <\/strong>and jamun pulp<\/strong> are commonly used in the preparation of milkshakes, ice creams, and desserts. The products are preserved at around-18 \u00b0C<\/strong>, which helps maintain freshness, flavour, and shelf stability while simplifying storage and transportation for commercial users.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOperating primarily in the business-to-business (B2B)<\/strong> segment, Ganpati Frozen World supplies fruit ingredients to manufacturers producing milkshakes, beverages, desserts, <\/strong>and other fruit-based products.<\/strong> The company also serves the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering) sector<\/strong>, providing ingredients that enable efficient large-scale food preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHaving participated in the exhibition three times since 2023, Ganpati Frozen World continues to use AAHAR 2026 as a platform to showcase its product range and connect with food processors, hospitality businesses, and distributors from across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr. Gaurav says, \u201cAAHAR has been an important platform for us to showcase our products and connect with buyers from across the country. Each year, we see new opportunities and partnerships emerging here.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nDehydrated Food Innovations from Gujarat<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nIndia\u2019s growing food processing sector is witnessing the emergence of innovative startups that are transforming how agricultural produce is processed and consumed. One such example is Aarambh Food Export<\/strong>, represented by Manging Director, Dhruv Bhalariya<\/strong>, showcasing its products at AAHAR 2026. The company, established around 2021 and based in Bhavnagar, Gujarat<\/strong>, focuses on producing ready-to-use dehydrated ingredients (dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and flavouring powders)<\/strong> for both household kitchens and the food processing industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAt the exhibition stall, the company is displaying a diverse range of products, including tomato, lemon, beetroot, potato, and onion flakes<\/strong>, as well as fruit powders such as apple and lemon powders<\/strong>. The product line also features dehydrated herbs like mint, curry leaves, and kasuri methi<\/strong>, which are widely used in seasoning blends, instant foods, bakery products, beverages, and smoothies. The company\u2019s approach highlights the growing importance of dehydration technology<\/strong> in food processing. By converting fresh produce into shelf-stable powders and flakes, such enterprises add value to agriculture<\/strong> while reducing post-harvest losses<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nShowcasing India\u2019s Evolving Food Processing Ecosystem<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe diverse stories emerging from AAHAR 2026 highlight the growing dynamism of India\u2019s food processing sector. From small entrepreneurs<\/strong> promoting regional flavours to startups introducing innovative technologies and value-added products, the exhibition reflects how businesses across the country are exploring new opportunities. By bringing together entrepreneurs, industry stakeholders, and buyers <\/strong>under one roof, platforms like AAHAR help strengthen connections<\/strong> across the food value chain while showcasing the richness <\/strong>and innovation<\/strong> within India\u2019s food processing ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\nReferences<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nMinistry of Commerce & Industry<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nhttps:\/\/www.itpo.gov.in\/aahar-2026-delhi\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Click here for pdf file. <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From Regional Flavours to Food Innovation: Entrepreneurial Stories from AAHAR 2026 Posted On: 12 MAR 2026 3:14PM by PIB Delhi The 40th edition of AAHAR 2026 has brought together stakeholders from across the food and hospitality ecosystem in New Delhi. The five-day international exhibition from 10th to 14th March, 2026, provides a platform for producers, exporters, hospitality businesses, and technology providers to connect and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[11,231,43,132,92],"tags":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37525"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=37525"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37525\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37526,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37525\/revisions\/37526"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=37525"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=37525"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/udaen.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=37525"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image002W2XA.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image003SPQB.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image004LUS6.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image005ZLVM.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image006JG4Q.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/static.pib.gov.in\/WriteReadData\/userfiles\/image\/image007R3CA.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n