The flavor of innovation met the spirit of entrepreneurship at the Tamil Nadu Food Processor’s Conclave, held on Monday, 23rd February 2026, at the Hotel Courtyard by Marriott, Madurai. Organized with the goal of empowering micro-enterprises and MSMEs, the event served as a vital platform for stakeholders in the food processing industry to connect, learn, and scale.
Here is a look back at the day’s journey toward transforming Tamil Nadu's food sector.
A Visionary Start
The conclave kicked off with an Inaugural Session that set a collaborative tone for the day:
- 🔹 Welcome Address: Thiru. Ganesan, General Manager of the District Industries Centre, Madurai, welcomed the gathering.
- 🔹 Theme Address: Thiru. B Nandhakumar, State Lead Project Manager for the PMFME Scheme, shared insights into the support systems available for food enterprises.
- 🔹 Special Address: Thiru. L. Nirmal Raj I.A.S., Industries Commissioner and Managing Director of FaMeTN, highlighted the state's strategic vision for industrial growth.
- 🔹 Concluding Remarks: Mr. N. Jegatheesan, Member of the SICCI Executive Committee, rounded off the session.
Mastering the Essentials: Packaging and Logistics
The technical sessions provided deep dives into the "how-tos" of modern food commerce:
- 🔹 Smart Packaging: Mr. Ponkumar, Director of the Indian Institute of Packaging, presented on the critical role of packaging in preservation and branding.
- 🔹 Exporting via India Post: In a highly practical session, Mr. Selvakumar from the Department of Post (Theni Division) demystified the procedures, documentation, and compliance required to send products to international markets using postal services.
Going Global: Strategies for MSMEs
Scaling from local markets to global shelves is a major hurdle for many. Mr. Siva Ramakrishnan, Founder of Velavan Agro, led an engaging session on export strategies specifically tailored for MSMEs in the food sector, providing a roadmap for navigating international waters.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
The afternoon focused on the cornerstone of the food industry: Safety.
- ✅ FSSAI - FoSTaC Training: Mr. Jinu Joseph conducted a comprehensive training and certification session, ensuring participants understood the latest food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Networking and Collaboration
Beyond the presentations, the conclave was a hub for professional synergy. From the Stall Visits to the Networking Lunch, participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas, showcase their products, and build partnerships that will likely shape the future of food processing in the region.
The event concluded with a clear message: with the right training, government support through schemes like PMFME, and a focus on global standards, Tamil Nadu’s food processors are ready to take on the world.