In a resounding display of industrial prowess, Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) has left an indelible mark at the food processing pavilion of Advantage Vidarbha – a prestigious industrial expo, business & investment conclave held from January 27 to 29, 2024, at RTMNU campus ground, Nagpur. This grand event, meticulously organized by the Association for Industrial Development, Nagpur, under the visionary guidance of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, was an integral part of the Khasdar Audyogik Mahotsav.
Boasting a rich legacy spanning over five decades, VIA has been a relentless advocate for industrial growth in the Vidarbha region, earning accolades as a pioneering regional industries association. VIA’s unwavering vision is clear – to position Vidarbha as the preferred investment destination and to cultivate an environment conducive to socio-economic growth through industry and services. Affiliated with esteemed organizations such as FICCI, AIMO, MEDC, CII, among others, VIA’s commitment to its cause is evident.
The VIA-Agro RD and Food Processing Forum, a dynamic arm of VIA, were strategically formed to raise awareness among agro entrepreneurs about the vast potential in the agricultural and horticulture sector, agro processing, and agri-business.
Distinguished industrialists who took center stage and represented VIA-Agro RD and Food Processing Forum at the Advantage Vidarbha Expo included R B Goenka (Goenka Farms), Om Jajodia (Krishi Kranti Kendra), Shachi Mallik (Indo Herbals), Sanjay Sinha (Santalum Aromatix Pvt Ltd & Bharti Herbs), Dr. Rina Saha (S & S Biotech), Dr. Kirty Sirothia (Dhruv Nature Park), and officials from Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) and ATMA.
The leadership team, led by R B Goenka (Mentor), Om Jajodia (Chairman), Shachi Mallick (Convenor of VIA Agro & Rural Development & Food Processing Forum), and Sanjay Sinha (Project Director), worked tirelessly to orchestrate the stalls, providing a vibrant platform for Vidarbha entrepreneurs to showcase their cutting-edge products.
Agro Forestry includes Sandalwood, Bamboo, African Mahogany, Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Cultivation, processing and value addition. Aleo Vera processing and value edition subject explain to the farmer and young enthusiasts.
The stalls saw a steady stream of visitors, including farmers, students, and the general public, all benefiting from the diverse array of products and valuable information on display. Laxmikant Padole Director – Neem Foundation, Aniruddha Ansingkar, Kapil Sahu, Shipra Dixit, and all forum members exhibited unity as they shared their knowledge with the visitors.
The esteemed dignitaries who graced the stalls included Hon’ble Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Dy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Phadnavis, Kanchan Gadkari, Nilima Bawane, President, Dharampeth Mahila Bank, Vishal Agarwal, President, VIA and Mr. Ashish Doshi, Hon. Secretary of VIA.
The Advantage Vidarbha Expo has proven to be an invaluable platform for networking, showcasing innovations, and fostering collaboration. VIA remains resolute in its commitment to promoting Vidarbha as a thriving investment destination, contributing significantly to the region’s industrial growth.