The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics and Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies in collaboration with Manav Rachna Centre for Peace and Sustainability, Manav Rachna University recently organized the International Conference on ‘Sustainability of Food-A Global Perspective’.

The focus of the conference was on food sustainability SDGs of 2015, to disseminate and discuss the strategies of agriculture and food systems, achievement of food security, improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. A sustainable food system lies at the heart of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The objective of the conference was to collaborate with industries, governments, and academicians to develop sustainable solutions to improving food security, focusing on sustainable food production, and supply chain resilience.

The proceedings of the event commenced with the welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Moattar Raza Rizvi, Dean Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, MRIIRS. Prefatory remarks were spoken by Prof. (Dr.) G.L Khanna, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, MRIIRS. He reiterated that the need of the hour is to develop sustainable food systems that are socially, economically, and environmentally adaptable. Dr. Sanjay Shrivastava, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor MRIIRS, shared an inspirational message in absentia for everyone to work together in partnership. The message was followed up by Prof. (Dr.) I. K. Bhatt, Vice-Chancellor, MRU, spoke about responsible consumption as well as the development of sustainable means to ensure food security. Chief Guest Dr. Dorairaj Prabhakaran, Director, Centre for Control of Chronic Conditions (CCCC), Vice President – Research & Policy, Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) graced the event.

Chief Guest Dr. Dorairaj Prabhakaran, Director, Centre for Control of Chronic Conditions (CCCC), Vice President – Research & Policy, Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) graced the event with his presence. In his address, he shared his thoughts and experiences regarding malnutrition, environment, and social sustainability. He suggested students undertake community-oriented research and adopt measures like kitchen garden, zero budget farming, vegetarianism, and respect other species as part of a holistic approach.

The event had symposiums of experts from industry and academia, to form a healthy discourse on varied topics like Nutraceutical sciences, Sustainability of Food, Sustainable and Nutritious Food Systems through Biofortification, among many others.

Dr. Divya Sanghi, HOD, Nutrition & Dietetics, FAHS, MRIIRS, gave a vote of gratitude to all the dignitaries for imparting their knowledge and strengthening the discourse around such relevant topics. The event was a huge success among students and the faculty.