The National Beverage Conclave of the Indian Beverage Association (IBA) took place at New Delhi. Renowned industry experts, policymakers, officials from regulatory organisations and other important stakeholders gathered to discuss and define the future of the non-alcoholic beverage industry under the topic “Sustainable Food Systems: Redefining the Beverage Industry”.
The Conclave highlighted the non-alcoholic beverage industry as a driver of job creation and the industry’s enormous growth potential. Diverse specialists provided attendees with enlightening panel discussions and presentations, including those from prestigious organisations like the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), business giants, start-ups, think tanks, and prominent key opinion leaders. Senior executives from the top beverage corporations facilitated the Conclave’s panellists.
Addressing the Conclave, Chief Guest Dr. Rakesh Mohan, President Emeritus and Distinguished Fellow at CSEP said, “I am delighted to witness the beverage industry’s remarkable journey towards sustainability. The industry has embraced a conscious approach towards the environment, ensuring its products are produced with a strong commitment to preserving our planet. Furthermore, the industry’s focus on health and fitness aligns with our consumers’ changing needs and aspirations. As we compare India’s progress with other developed countries, seeing our beverage industry actively implementing sustainable practices is inspiring. From reducing energy consumption to implementing innovative solutions, they set a commendable example for others to follow.”
The event was graced by some of the renowned government functionaries like CK Mishra, Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change; Dr HS Oberoi, FSSAI; Dr Rakesh Mohan, President Emeritus & Distinguished Fellow, CSEP, Member, PM-EAC. Leading IBA Functionaries, namely SR Goenka, Chairperson; CK Jaiporia, Vice Chairperson; and JP Meena, Secretary General. Industry stalwarts and panelists such as Angelo George, Bisleri Int.; Dr Arpita Mukherjee, ICRIER; Deepak Agarwal, Auric; Deepak Jolly, Ind Food & Beverage Association; Dr DV Darshane, Ind Food & Beverage Association; Leena Srivastava, Ashoka Centre for a People-Centric Energy Transition; Naina Sharma, Invest India; Nayantara Rai, Zomato; Dr. Nazneen Husein, Indian Dietetic Association; Prabhjot Sodhi, CEE; Ravi Kapoor, PwC; Shantanu Guha Ray, Central European News & NewsX; Sundeep Bajoria, Coca-Cola India; and Suneeti Toteja, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) amongst others. The event was convened by Tayna Majithia, Director, IBA.
At the National Beverage Conclave 2023, the panel discussions revolved around some of the most intriguing themes, such as Environmental Sustainability, Economic & Fiscal Sustainability, and Social Sustainability, inspiring participants to reimagine beverage manufacturing, distribution, and consumption.
Sharing his enthusiasm for the outcomes of the Conclave, Mr. JP Meena, Secretary General, IBA said, “IBA’s National Beverage Conclave 2023 has provided a remarkable platform for industry stakeholders to come together and shape the future of the beverage industry. We are thrilled by the level of engagement and the commitment showcased by participants from various sectors. By embracing sustainable food systems, we can unleash the full potential of the non-alcoholic beverages industry, creating a more prosperous and environmentally conscious future.”
The Conclave emphasized the sector’s vital role in economic growth, fostering innovation, and promoting exports. Key discussions centered around strategies to enhance competitiveness, expand market reach, and attract foreign investments. With its focus on collaboration, development and innovation, the Conclave aimed to propel the beverage industry towards achieving these ambitious economic targets through social sustainability. The positive audience reception and attendees’ active participation applauded IBA’s efforts in organizing such an impactful event.
