Reflecting on the 1st Bodoland International Knowledge Festival

It was both an honor and a privilege to be invited as a Keynote Speaker for the 1st Bodoland International Knowledge Festival, held from February 27 to March 2, 2023, at Bodoland University in Assam, India. Organized by the Bodoland Territory Government (BTR) in collaboration with Bodoland University and various regional and national organizations, this prestigious event was a grand platform for sharing knowledge and insights.

During the festival, I had the opportunity to present my thoughts on the topic, “Innovation, Advancing Food Security, Resilience, and Sustainability Through Indigenous/Traditional Foods.” The event was inaugurated by distinguished Nobel Laureates, including Prof. Muhammad Yunus, alongside various state ministers, global and national academicians, philanthropists, and Bollywood actors such as Mr. Sonu Sood and Mr. Vivek Oberoi. The festival was attended by over 10,000 participants, marking it as a significant occasion.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mega event, where I shared my scientific knowledge and experiences on enhancing food and nutrition security, improving livelihoods, and advancing the industrialization of indigenous foods. My sincere thanks go to the organizers for this remarkable platform and for fostering discussions on such vital topics.

This experience has reinforced my commitment to advancing food security and resilience through innovative approaches, and I look forward to continuing this journey with renewed enthusiasm.