Sunday 25 / October / 2026
India’s participation as Partner Country highlighted climate-resilient farming, women-led agricultural initiatives and opportunities for Indian food producers in European markets.
India showcased its agricultural diversity, sustainable farming practices and food products at SIAL Paris 2026, held from October 17 to 21 at Paris Nord Villepinte, France. As Partner Country, India presented its pavilion under the theme “Feeding Our Tomorrow”, highlighting the role of small farmers in strengthening agricultural resilience, sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Jawed Ashraf, Chairman of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and former Indian Ambassador to France and Monaco, led India’s presence at the exhibition. He highlighted the shift towards climate-resilient agriculture, supported by reduced chemical use, improved traceability and technology-driven farming practices.
Drones, sensors, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things are helping farmers manage water, fertilisers and crop protection more efficiently. One example showcased was Priyanka Rhushikesh Mohite, a certified agricultural drone pilot from Nashik, Maharashtra. According to the report, drone-assisted spraying and seeding reduced the time required to treat an acre from a full day to seven or eight minutes, while water consumption fell from approximately 200 litres to 10 litres.
The India pavilion also highlighted packaged, ready-to-eat and premium food products, alongside geographical indication (GI)-tagged products such as Naga chilli and Mithila makhana. The participation underscored the potential of India’s diverse agricultural output to reach international markets.
With 2026 designated by the United Nations as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, India’s showcase also drew attention to women-led farmer-producer organisations and their contribution to rural incomes and economic independence.
Looking ahead, ITPO is considering establishing offices in European cities, including Frankfurt, Paris, Milan and Rotterdam, to strengthen market connections. The India-EU free trade agreement, concluded in January 2026 and expected to be signed by year-end, could further expand opportunities for Indian farmers and MSMEs, provided they meet European market requirements.
