Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi inaugurated 64th Council Meeting of the International Sugar Organization (ISO) at Bharat Mandapam here today.
The meeting will conclude on 27th June, 2024. Experts from over 30 countries participated in the meeting to discuss and deliberate on the future possibilities, challenges, and strategies in the sugarcane, sugar, and allied sectors. Earlier, India hosted 41st session of ISO council Meeting in 2012.
During his inaugural address, the Union Minister said nearly 5 crore farmers (Including Family Members) are engaged in cultivation of sugarcane and the industry is providing ample employment opportunities both directly and indirectly.
He emphasised Government of India under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister accords top priority to the welfare of farmers and safeguarding interest of consumers as well as the industry thereby, ensuring collaborative efforts to improve agricultural practices.
Shri Joshi expressed pride hosting the ISO conference and highlighted India’s commitment to advancing technology and skills in the sugar and biofuel sectors. Emphasizing India’s cultural and economic reliance on sugar, the Minister noted India’s status as the world’s largest sugar consumer and a significant biofuel producer, achieving over 12% ethanol blending with petrol and aiming for 20% soon.
