Globalisation and increased competition in the market has intensified the need for a highly skilled workforce in the food processing industry, says Sunil Marwah

COVID-19, the dreaded pandemic of the century has torn asunder the fabric of the world economy. It has affected every industry and the food industry is no exception.

Despite being one of the largest agricultural producers in the world, India is facing low levels of production and also in its other related facets like packaging, processing, storage, cold chain and transportation. This is mainly due to lack of skilled man power and due to this food safety and quality of the food has suffered immensely.

Adverse effects are being noted on the growth of the industry which is vital in delivering its true potential to strengthen the agricultural economy of India. The importance of this industry has been highlighted during the lockdown phase.

However, one must remember that new opportunities spring out of every dire situation. COVID-19 too has given birth to new ideas for growth of business and industries adopting and adapting new technologies and measures for the safety of their employees as well as their consumers by limiting the spread of the virus.

Automation will help face these challenges faced by the sector and is gaining traction, particularly in packaging, warehousing and distribution operations. Rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technologies and automation process brings in more efficiency and helps removes human error. As demand for fresh foods increases, distribution and warehousing facilities will need to be in closer proximity to consumer markets.

Further, demographic and economic resources of India has to be backed by a highly skilled workforce to achieve its true potential. This is imperative in this age of globalisation where competition is the hallmark. This will also ensure quality on a global scale and the success of this will lead to a better working environment, health and a brighter future for the workforce.

Skill Development to act as the driving force

The Government is focusing on developing the requisite skills in the food processing sector. In fact, the Ministry of food processing has collaborated with several skill development organisations such as the Food Industry Capacity and Skill Initiative (FICSI) to bridge the skill  gap in the food processing industry. The council introduced some special courses related to safe hygiene practices to be followed during COVID-19, to spread awareness in the industry and among stakeholders associated in the food chain on how to prevent the spread of the virus.

It is indispensable for the food industry to reinforce personal hygiene measures and provide new training on food hygiene principles to wipe out or reduce the risk of food surfaces and food packaging materials becoming contaminated with the virus from food workers.

Globalisation and increased competition in the market has intensified the need for a highly skilled workforce in the economy to meet global standards of quality and such industry bodies are tirelessly working to create a better future by providing a skilled workforce.

The writer is CEO, Food Industry Capacity & Skill Initiative (FICSI)