Industry leaders share success stories and insights on research, innovation and entrepreneurship
Research, innovation and quality are the key to global success: Vinay Dixit
Udaipur, A two-day international seminar on “Innovation, Technology, Startups and Sustainability – The Next Decade of the Food and Dairy Industry” commenced on October 24 at Maharana Pratap Auditorium, Rajasthan College of Agriculture campus, Udaipur. The seminar is being jointly organised by the College of Dairy and Food Technology (CDFT), Udaipur, and the CDFT Alumni Association.
The seminar is being held under the theme “Reconnect • Rejuvenate • Reimagine”, bringing together alumni, scientists, researchers, students and industry representatives to explore emerging opportunities in innovation, technological advancement, entrepreneurship and sustainable development in the food and dairy sector. More than 500 scientists, researchers and industry representatives from India and abroad are participating in the event.
Industry Leaders Share Their Success Stories
Addressing the inaugural session, Vinay Dixit, representing Haldiram’s, highlighted the company's business journey and its expansion into 90 countries. He explained how research and development have played a crucial role in introducing innovative products and strengthening the company's global presence.
He cited the use of moth beans instead of gram flour in the preparation of savoury snacks as an example of product innovation. He emphasised that continuous innovation, consistent quality and adapting to changing consumer preferences have been instrumental in establishing Haldiram’s in international markets.
Ashok Goyal of the Tirupati Group shared the group's entrepreneurial journey, explaining how sustained efforts, research and development, and innovation helped it establish a distinct identity in the pharmaceutical sector. He discussed the introduction of new protein-based products through a research-driven approach and explained how innovation opened new avenues for business expansion.
Goyal emphasised that research, quality and innovation are essential drivers of industrial growth. He also highlighted emerging business opportunities and shared insights from his entrepreneurial experience.
Food and Dairy Sector Crucial to the Vision of Developed India
Presiding over the inaugural session, MPUAT Vice-Chancellor Dr. Pratap Singh said the food and dairy industry would play a significant role in achieving the vision of a developed India. He highlighted the immense opportunities available in education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship within the sector.
Encouraging students to make the most of emerging opportunities, he stressed the importance of acquiring skills and adopting modern technologies to pursue employment, self-employment and startup ventures. He described the food and dairy sector as an important contributor to the vision of a self-reliant India.
Alka Goyal of the Pontika Group shared her entrepreneurial journey, explaining how she ventured into business after completing her graduation and a subsequent career break. Through determination, confidence and consistent efforts, she built her business into a successful enterprise. Her experience highlighted the importance of perseverance, commitment and identifying the right opportunities in entrepreneurship.
Seminar Souvenir Released
A souvenir featuring contributions from scientists and students on emerging research, innovation, modern technologies and sustainability in dairy and food technology was released during the inaugural programme.
The publication highlights recent developments in the food and dairy industry, research achievements and future growth prospects, providing a platform for sharing knowledge and ideas among researchers, students and industry professionals.
Industry Partners Support the International Seminar
Several prominent institutions and industry groups have extended their support to the international seminar. Haldiram’s is the Title Partner, Tirupati Group is the Platinum Partner, and Amul/GCMMF is the Gold Partner.
Other partners include KP Manish as Lunch Partner; Flavor N Fusion Ingredients Pvt. Ltd. as Dinner Partner; Future Automation Pvt. Ltd. as Kit Partner; Sure Real Estate, Dubai, as Cultural Programme Partner; Shri Kamdhenu Electronics Pvt. Ltd. as Breakfast Partner; Bharat Milk Products Pvt. Ltd. (Baba Milk) as Registration Partner; and Havmor as Ice Cream Partner.
ASA Foods Pvt. Ltd., Vishwa Machinery and Processing Pvt. Ltd., and Delmos Research are supporting the event as Bronze Partners. Sri Ganganagar District Milk Producers' Union and Urmul, Bikaner (RCDF), have also extended financial support.
Academicians, Alumni and Industry Representatives Attend
The inaugural session was attended by several university officials and academic leaders, including Dr. Lokesh Gupta, Dean, Rajasthan College of Agriculture; Dr. Manoj Kumar Mahla, Director of Research; Dr. L. N. Mahawar, Dean, College of Fisheries; and Dr. Prakash Panwar, Director, DRI.
A large number of students, alumni association members, entrepreneurs, industry representatives and members of the press and media also participated in the programme.
At the beginning of the event, Dr. Karun Chandalia, President of the CDFT Alumni Association, delivered the welcome address. Dean Dr. Siddharth Mishra provided details of the technical sessions scheduled during the seminar. Nirbhay Goyal, Secretary, was responsible for programme management and coordination, while Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Meena delivered the vote of thanks. The programme was conducted by Bhoomi Baiti and Kushal.
The two-day seminar aims to strengthen collaboration between academia, research institutions and industry while encouraging innovative solutions, sustainable practices and entrepreneurship to shape the future of the food and dairy sector.