Delhi, 19 July (H.S.): India's leadership in establishing a group standard for whole millet grains received commendation during the 88th Session of the Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CCEXEC88), held in Rome from 14th to 18th July 2025. The committee, chaired by India along with co-chairs Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal, reviewed progress on this initiative, with terms finalized at the 11th Session of the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes in April 2025.

India, represented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, participated in discussions led by FAO and WHO officials. The committee acknowledged India's work on new standards for fresh dates, as recommended during the Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, and endorsed them for approval at the upcoming CAC48 in November 2025. India will also co-chair new proposals for fresh turmeric and broccoli standards.

Additionally, India contributed to discussions on the monitoring framework for the Codex Strategic Plan 2026–2031, emphasizing the need for outcome-based, measurable KPIs. India highlighted its capacity-building programs for neighboring countries, recognized by FAO, and encouraged less active member states to leverage the Codex Trust Fund for mentorship opportunities. This came from India's successful capacity-building initiatives with Bhutan and Nepal. The delegation ensured efficient representation of India's interests at CCEXEC88.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar