Modi promotes North-East as a vital hub for organic farming

On May 23, 2025, during the Rising North East Summit held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the increasing global interest in organic food and articulated his aspirations for Indian food brands to gain prominence internationally. He highlighted that, over the last decade, the scope of organic farming in the North-East region has significantly expanded, with production of a variety of high-quality products, including tea, pineapples, oranges, lemons, turmeric, and ginger. Modi noted that the exceptional quality and taste of these products have sparked growing international demand, positioning the region as a critical player in India's organic food export market. The Prime Minister's address included a call to action for stakeholders to capitalize on the abundant opportunities available in organic farming and recognize the North-East's potential to enhance India's agricultural export capabilities. He reaffirmed the Indian government's commitment to reinforcing food processing infrastructure in the region as a means to support local farmers and promote their produce globally. In his speech, Modi also referenced the ongoing initiatives to improve connectivity in the region, which are facilitating the government's objectives in agricultural development. Plans to create mega food parks, expand cold storage networks, and set up testing laboratories are underway to ensure better processing and distribution of organic products. Furthermore, he mentioned the recently launched Oil Palm Mission, noting the North-East's favorable climate and soil conditions for cultivating palm oil, which presents a significant opportunity for local farmers to improve their livelihoods while reducing the nation's reliance on imported edible oils. The Prime Minister urged industries and stakeholders to engage actively in harnessing the agricultural potential of the North-East, indicating that the region could play a pivotal role in transforming India into a global player in the organic food sector. Modi's vision reflects an understanding of the increasing consumer demand for organic products worldwide and an ambition to elevate Indian agriculture on the international stage. As these initiatives develop, they are expected to foster economic growth, enhance local livelihoods, and support the environment through sustainable farming practices.