Founded in 2017, Shri Vibracion Technologies has steadily carved a niche in India’s material handling landscape with its focus on hygienic, efficient and application-driven solutions. The company addresses critical challenges such as product breakage, cleaning complexity and energy efficiency across food, dairy, pharma and packaging sectors. In this interview, Mr Chetan Dakhore, Founder of Shri Vibracion Pvt Ltd, shares insights into the company’s journey, its technology-driven approach to safer and smarter production lines, sustainability focus, customer-centric philosophy, and plans for Indusfood Manufacturing 2026. IBT: Shri Vibracion started in 2017 and has grown steadily in the material handling space. What was the main idea behind starting the company, and how has the journey been so far? Chetan Dakhore: Founded in 2017, Shri Vibracion emerged to solve critical gaps in conventional material handling systems, including hygiene concerns, product breakage, and operational inefficiencies. The company’s core idea was to engineer reliable, low-maintenance equipment tailored to real process conditions. With a strong emphasis on design excellence, application knowledge, and continuous improvement, Shri Vibracion has progressed steadily. What began as a small engineering-driven venture now supports processors across India and global markets. Today, the company is recognized for its robust material handling solutions, process-oriented designs, and commitment to performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. IBT: Your equipment serves industries like snacks, dairy, pharma, and packaging. How do you ensure your systems meet each industry’s hygiene and performance needs? Chetan Dakhore: Different industries demand different solutions, so the company designs its solutions with application-specific engineering. In snacks and potato processing, gentle conveying and low breakage are essential. Dairy and pharma require stainless-steel construction, smooth edges, and easy cleaning. Packaging lines depend on accuracy and seamless integration. Shri Vibracion meets hygiene needs through open profiles, tool-free cleaning, CIP-ready options and certified food-grade materials. Performance is ensured with tuned vibratory drives, controlled product flow and low-friction surfaces. Constant collaboration with customer teams, trials and feedback helps refine every machine. This ensures reliability, easy maintenance and consistent compliance with hygiene standards. IBT: How is Shri Vibracion using technology and innovation to make production lines more efficient and safe? Chetan Dakhore: At Shri Vibracion Technologies, innovation focuses on making production lines faster, safer and more predictable. The equipment is engineered with vibration tuning, advanced isolators and smart flow control to maintain stable product movement and reduce manual handling. Integrated sensors and controls help monitor speed, vibration health and production data, enabling preventive maintenance and minimising downtime. Automation-ready designs allow smooth integration with upstream and downstream machinery. Hygienic structures, simple washdown and fewer crevices ensure better safety for operators and food products. Every innovation aims to deliver practical results—lower stoppages, easier cleaning, reduced labour and smoother, continuous plant operations. IBT: Energy efficiency is becoming important for manufacturers. How do your products help reduce power use and promote sustainability? Chetan Dakhore: Energy efficiency is built into every system the company manufactures. Vibratory drives consume significantly less power than traditional mechanical conveyors while still delivering high throughput. Lightweight frames, optimised flow paths and efficient motors reduce loading and current draw. Hygienic design also shortens cleaning cycles, decreasing water and energy usage. With fewer moving parts, the machines experience less wear, resulting in longer life and lower total maintenance costs. Durable materials, modular construction and easy serviceability further reduce long-term waste. For customers, this translates to lower operating expenses, a reduced carbon footprint and more sustainable production without sacrificing performance. IBT: Building long-term customer trust is key to your success. How do you maintain quality, reliability, and timely delivery? Chetan Dakhore: Building customer trust begins with consistent quality. Shri Vibracion Technologies follows a structured workflow that includes requirement study, trials, engineering validation and strict quality checks before dispatch. Standardised components, in-house fabrication and skilled technicians ensure machines remain reliable and simple to maintain. Delivery timelines are managed through careful planning, stocked parts and strong supplier support. Service teams provide installation, training and ongoing assistance. The company focuses on long-term partnerships rather than one-time sales. Transparent communication, fair pricing and responsive after-sales service give customers confidence. This commitment has resulted in repeat orders and a strong reputation across the industry. IBT: How do your technologies help drive success in the food processing industry? Which key segments do you serve? Also please cite some examples of how your solutions have been helpful for your clients in the industry Chetan Dakhore: Shri Vibracion technologies support food processors by improving hygiene, reducing breakage and enhancing overall line efficiency. Key segments include potato processing, snacks, namkeen, frozen foods, seasoning applications, dairy ingredients and ready-to-eat lines. The equipment is used for conveying, feeding, grading, spreading and distribution. Clients have experienced smoother product flow, lower manual handling and increased throughput. For example, potato processors reported cleaner lines with significantly reduced product damage, while snack manufacturers achieved more accurate seasoning and faster packaging speeds. Frozen food plants benefited from hygienic conveyors that withstand frequent washdowns. These real results help boost customer productivity and profitability. IBT: What will Shri Vibracion showcase at Indusfood Manufacturing 2026, and how do you see this event helping your company grow further? Chetan Dakhore: At Indusfood Manufacturing 2026, Shri Vibracion Technologies will present its hygienic vibratory conveyors, feeders, distribution systems and specialised food-processing solutions. The focus will be on low-maintenance, easy-to-clean equipment that ensures consistent and reliable performance. The exhibition offers a great opportunity to interact with decision-makers, understand upcoming projects and build new partnerships. Live discussions and demos will highlight advantages such as reduced breakage, faster changeovers and higher uptime. Participation will also strengthen brand presence among processors, OEMs and system integrators. Overall, the event will help expand networks, generate quality enquiries and support the company’s continued growth in domestic and export markets.  

MAMATA Machinery is a global leader in flexible packaging solutions, known for its vertically integrated capabilities spanning film extrusion, converting, primary packaging, and secondary automation. In this interview, Mr. V. Rajashekhar, President, MAMATA Machinery, explains how the company continues to innovate through proprietary engineering, modular servo-driven platforms, and deep material science expertise. He shares insights on MAMATA’s global manufacturing strategy, customer-centric R&D model, readiness for recyclable mono-materials, and resilience amid supply chain volatility, while outlining the company’s vision for sustainable packaging and its participation at Indusfood Manufacturing 2026. IBT: How is MAMATA Machinery continuing to innovate in flexible packaging machinery, and what emerging technologies are you focusing on to maintain your competitive edge in global markets? V Rajashekhar: MAMATA’s innovation strategy is built on technology integration, modular design, proprietary engineering, and deep expertise in flexible film materials. Its key differentiator is end-to-end capability across the entire flexible packaging value chain—from film extrusion and converting to primary and secondary packaging—enabling customers to work with a single technology partner. The company offers one of the most comprehensive packaging machinery portfolios globally, including VFFS and HFFS systems, Pick-Fill-Seal platforms, multitrack sachet and stick-pack machines, and high-speed secondary automation. All machines are based on modular, servo-driven architectures that deliver high throughput, faster changeovers, superior accuracy, and lower operating costs, with guaranteed uptime and OEE above 95%. Designed and engineered entirely in-house, MAMATA’s proprietary sealing, film-handling, and motion-control technologies ensure zero seal failures, minimal waste, and consistent performance at high speeds. Its machines are optimized for recyclable mono-materials such as mono-PE and BOPE and are Industry 4.0 ready, with remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and seamless MES integration. IBT: With operations in India and two facilities in the USA (Illinois and Florida), plus customers in over 75 countries, how do you balance localized manufacturing with global standardization? What are your strategic priorities for expanding MAMATA’s footprint in key international markets? V. Rajashekhar: MAMATA balances global scale with local responsiveness through centralized R&D, standardized platforms, and uniform engineering governed by global manufacturing standards. India serves as the core R&D and innovation hub, supported by cost-efficient manufacturing that strengthens global competitiveness. Common CAD libraries, shared PLM systems, and standardized control software ensure every machine—whether built in India or the US—operates on identical logic, diagnostics, and Industry 4.0 protocols, with centralized release management preventing design drift. Strategically, MAMATA is deepening its presence in India and the US, followed by expansion across Russia-CIS, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, offering customers end-to-end primary and secondary packaging solutions. IBT: How is MAMATA Machinery adapting its product portfolio—from bag-making machines to HFFS and co- extrusion blown film plants—to address these changing customer requirements? V. Rajashekhar: MAMATA has adapted its portfolio by modernizing bag-making platforms to produce retort pouches, e-commerce bags, zipper pouches, and PE monolayer stand-up pouches. Servo-driven modularity allows customers to configure machines based on SKUs, batch sizes, and sustainability requirements, while inline inspection, digital registration, and faster changeovers support shorter production runs. Its HFFS platforms feature advanced sealing technologies for mono-materials, zipper packs, portion packs, and liquid-fill applications, with UL and CE compliance for the US and EU markets and localized assembly in Illinois and Florida. CAT3-enabled machines support remote diagnostics and virtual installations. MAMATA has also expanded its film capabilities with 5-, 7-, and 9-layer co-extrusion lines for recyclable mono-PE laminates, high-barrier films, BOPE-compatible structures, and ultra-thin, high-strength films—uniquely offering turnkey film extrusion, converting, and packaging solutions that reduce risk and accelerate the shift to recyclability. IBT: With recent supply chain disruptions and material price fluctuations affecting the manufacturing sector, what strategies has MAMATA implemented to ensure consistent quality, timely delivery, and cost competitiveness for your customers worldwide? V Rajashekhar: MAMATA has built a resilient, multi-layered supply chain and manufacturing framework to navigate global market volatility while consistently delivering high-quality machines on time and at competitive cost. The approach combines just-in-time production, deeper vertical integration, strong vendor partnerships, and digital supply chain visibility. By balancing global standardization with local responsiveness, MAMATA ensures reliable delivery schedules, consistent global quality, and dependable access to spares and service—even in uncertain conditions. This built-in resilience across supply chain, manufacturing, and digital systems reinforces MAMATA’s commitment to uninterrupted value and superior performance for customers worldwide. IBT: MAMATA Machinery is known for customized systems and strong R&D capabilities. How do you collaborate with clients to develop solutions that deliver a competitive edge in their markets? V Rajashekhar: Most OEMs design a machine and then look for customers. MAMATA reverses this approach by starting with the customer’s market challenge. The company follows a structured six-step co-design workflow that begins with clearly defining performance needs such as speed, sealing, film type, hygiene, format, and space. This is followed by detailed application studies, digital simulations and concept validation, prototyping and pilot trials, scale-up engineering, and on-site validation through commissioning, training, and optimization. This collaborative process ensures alignment on performance metrics from day one. Every R&D project is driven by measurable business outcomes, not technical novelty, giving customers true ownership of the solution and tangible productivity gains. IBT: What initiatives has MAMATA Machinery undertaken to help customers transition to sustainable packaging solutions? How are your machines designed to support recyclable materials, reduce material waste, and improve energy efficiency? V Rajashekhar: As global markets move away from multilayer laminates toward mono-PE, BOPE, and recycle-ready PE films, MAMATA has re-engineered sealing, forming, and tension-control systems across all platforms, including VFFS, HFFS, Pick-Fill-Seal, multitrack, and bag- and pouch-making machines. The company is at the forefront of sustainable film development through advanced co-extrusion technologies, with 5-, 7-, and 9-layer blown film lines that enable customers to produce recyclable films optimized to run efficiently on MAMATA machines. Unlike machine-only OEMs, MAMATA designs film extrusion, converting, and packaging systems, giving it a 360-degree understanding of plastic rheology across the entire process chain—from extrusion to secondary automation. This insight drives proprietary sealing modules, advanced temperature management, improved web handling, and defect-reduction algorithms that allow thinner gauges, ensure 100% seal integrity at high speeds, and eliminate product-in-seal.

India is the world’s largest milk producer, yet global leadership in dairy depends on competitiveness, not volume alone. As global demand rises, the sector must shift its focus to productivity, technology-driven systems, export readiness, and sustainable supply chains. With the right policy support and innovation ecosystem, India has the opportunity to evolve from a volume leader into the world’s supplier of choice for dairy products. For six decades, India and the world have lived through a quiet miracle: food systems that expanded just fast enough to keep hunger at bay. Between 1960 and today, the global population grew 2.6 times, while food production rose even faster. Wheat and rice more than tripled. Fruits and vegetables increased fivefold. Egg production surged sixfold. Even milk output managed to keep pace with population growth. This success did more than fill plates — it helped avert conflict. Hunger fuels unrest; food security sustains peace. India played a central role in this transformation. Whether rice, wheat, sugar, potatoes, or milk, India is either the largest or second-largest producer globally. In dairy alone, India contributes nearly one-fourth of global milk output — more than the US and the EU combined. Yet the obvious question remains: if we produce so much, why aren’t we a global dairy powerhouse? The answer lies in productivity. India leads in volume but remains far below global benchmarks in per-animal yield. Global markets reward consistency, quality, and standards — outcomes driven by genetics, feed science, supply-chain discipline, and digital intelligence, not by simply expanding herd size. If India wants to lead, it must compete not with more animals, but with better systems. Technology will define this transition. IoT-based herd monitoring, precision feeding, AI-driven breeding, and QR-enabled consumer traceability are no longer futuristic concepts; they are already shaping the next dairy revolution. The next leap in dairy will not come from producing more milk, but from using better data. India’s dairy sector supports over 80 million households, making it the world’s largest livelihood ecosystem. This explains why dairy has remained outside most free trade agreements and why tariff debates — whether driven by US policy cycles or shifting geopolitics — remain sensitive. Protection, however, cannot be a permanent strategy. It is a bridge. The objective is not insulation, but global competitiveness — entering markets from a position of strength, not fear. Achieving this requires scale, export readiness, and a supportive ecosystem. A national dairy export policy aligned with WTO norms is long overdue. India needs export clusters, certification laboratories, and a dedicated institutional body for market intelligence and global branding. In dairy, time is everything. The clock starts ticking the moment milk is drawn. Logistics is not a back-end function; it determines quality, safety, and farmer income. Countries that mastered the cold chain mastered dairy. India must now move beyond basic chilling to integrated, energy-efficient, digital supply chains that track milk from udder to shelf. Renewable energy, biogas, water recycling, and carbon-efficient processing systems should become standard practice. Sustainability is no longer a CSR commitment — it is a business imperative. For years, dairy was seen as traditional, even static. Today, it is one of India’s most innovation-hungry sectors. The next wave of startups may not emerge from urban tech hubs, but from rural India — applying AI to feed optimisation, building premium regional dairy brands, creating D2C platforms, or developing sensors that guarantee milk quality. Incubators, blended finance, cooperative partnerships, and industry–academia collaboration will determine how quickly this ecosystem scales. Globally, demand is far from saturated. Dairy consumption is rising across South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and ASEAN — regions where Indian products are both culturally aligned and cost-competitive. While India already exports ghee, paneer, SMP, and traditional products, these flows remain largely opportunistic rather than strategic. With targeted investments, India can also build strength in high-value segments such as whey protein, infant-grade lactose, and specialty cheeses — areas where imports still dominate but domestic capability is beginning to emerge. The message is clear: India must evolve from being the world’s largest producer of milk to becoming the supplier of choice for the world. The Road to 2047: What India Must Get Right By the time India completes 100 years of independence, our dairy sector should reflect three pillars: 1. Quality that rivals the best in the world: Not just safe milk, but branded, traceable, value-added products with global consistency. 2. Sustainability embedded end-to-end: Higher yield with lower emissions; better manure economics; circular processing systems. 3. Technology that transforms the grassroots: A digitally empowered farmer who knows her herd’s health, feed, price discovery, and market access in real time. If we do this, dairy can become one of India’s greatest soft-power assets — much like yoga, Ayurveda, and IT. Where the dairy sector stands today and what must happen next? India’s dairy sector stands at a critical inflection point. While the country has built the world’s largest milk ecosystem by volume, the next phase of growth must focus on formalising value, not just scaling output. Today, the organised sector handles roughly 140 million litres of milk every day, while the unorganised sector processes nearly twice that amount. The path forward is not about displacing this vast informal network, but integrating it—bringing quality, traceability, and market access together without breaking the rural backbone that sustains dairy livelihoods. Equally important is a renewed commitment to science-led farming. Productivity and quality can no longer be treated as separate goals. Advances in breeding, balanced feed, clean water access, mineral nutrition, manure management, and early-stage chilling are just as critical as digital tools and data systems. Without strengthening the farm-level fundamentals, scale alone will not deliver competitiveness or sustainability. Capital is the next missing link. Despite being the world’s largest dairy ecosystem, the sector remains under-served by long-term, patient investment. What it needs is blended finance, clearer policy signals, scalable infrastructure, and greater visibility for investors. World-class dairy systems require world-class capital frameworks—and India deserves nothing less. Finally, India must articulate a unified national identity

Pankaj Sajnani, Commercial Head- GCC Grocery Food & Frozen, Choithrams, one of the UAE’s most respected retail groups, shares how the company is navigating a fast-evolving food market. He also discusses Choithrams’ growth strategy for 2026, key consumer trends shaping retail decisions, high-potential product categories, and what Indian suppliers need to succeed in the GCC retail ecosystem.   IBT: Choithrams has been an iconic name in UAE retail case, how would you describe your current expansion focus and what’s driving your growth strategy for 2026 Pankaj Sajnani: Choithrams continues to strengthen its presence across key communities, with a clear focus on neighbourhood convenience and an enhanced customer experience. Our growth strategy for 2026 is anchored in data-led assortment planning, deeper digital integration, and a robust omnichannel approach. We are also expanding our fresh and health-focused offerings to align with evolving consumer preferences and lifestyles. IBT: With UAE being one of the world’s most dynamic food markets. What do you feel are the most influential customer trends driving your decisions as a retailer? Pankaj Sajnani: Indeed, the UAE food market is evolving rapidly, with consumers increasingly seeking healthier, more convenient, and premium food choices. Alongside this, a growing interest in global flavours—especially within the “better-for-you” segment—is strongly shaping our assortment and buying decisions today. IBT: Which product categories would you define as very high potential areas for you in the coming year? Pankaj Sajnani: Based on our data insights, health and wellness stands out as a high-potential category, driven by the rise of better-for-you snacking and premium, gourmet offerings. Sustainability-led household products and clean-label ranges are also showing strong promise. In addition, world food specialties are emerging as important growth drivers for the coming year. IBT: India, of course, is a strong sourcing destination for Choithrams. So, what do you see as the biggest untapped opportunities for Indian suppliers in the UAE market. Pankaj Sajnani: India remains a strong sourcing destination for Choithrams, with significant untapped opportunities in staples, authentic and region-specific specialties, and innovative, health-oriented products. For Indian suppliers, consistent quality and reliability, supported by a robust supply chain, will be critical to unlocking sustainable growth in the UAE market. IBT: When you engage with new companies in Indian brands or manufacturing companies, how do you assess whether the supplier is ready for global retail operations. Pankaj Sajnani: We assess global readiness through robust quality standards, strong compliance certifications, and reliable supply chain capabilities. Clear branding, consistent product quality, well-developed packaging, and preparedness with international documentation are also key indicators of a supplier’s readiness for global retail operations. IBT: What will be your key priorities at Indusfood 2026? Pankaj Sajnani: At Indusfood 2026, our priority will be to discover innovative products and engage with high-potential brands that can strengthen and diversify our future assortments. We will also actively explore private-label opportunities and build strong, long-term partnerships with suppliers. Private labels are increasingly important for us as we develop competitive “fighter brands” alongside national brands. Given our dual capabilities across retail and distribution in the GCC, we will evaluate opportunities from both perspectives, assessing products that can scale across multiple markets and channels. IBT: For exhibitors meeting you, what should they come equipped with so that the conversation is impactful and constructive? Pankaj Sajnani: Exhibitors should come well prepared with accurate and complete product details, including barcodes, packaging specifications, competitive pricing, and the required certifications in line with UAE compliance norms. Product samples, where possible, are highly recommended. They should also be ready to discuss supply capacity, consistency, and their ability to build a long-term partnership. Having these elements in place ensures the discussion is focused, constructive, and truly productive. IBT: Any message you would like to offer to Indian exporters who want to export to the GCC region? Pankaj Sajnani: For Indian exporters looking at the GCC, the fundamentals remain clear: uncompromising quality, consistency, and a reliable supply chain are critical to success in the region’s retail markets. A strong understanding of local regulations and compliance requirements is equally important. Exporters should also be prepared with innovative offerings that reflect evolving retailer expectations and regional consumer preferences. Sustainability is becoming increasingly relevant, but above all, consistency in supply and performance is what builds trust and enables long-term growth in the GCC.

As South Asia’s food processing industry undergoes rapid transformation, global technology leaders are increasingly investing in localized solutions to meet regional demands. JBT Marel’s recent establishment of a Global Production Center in Pune marks a significant milestone in this shift. In this exclusive conversation, Vikram Mulmule, VP of Sales and Operations at JBT Marel, shares insights on how the company is tailoring advanced FoodTech and automated systems for diverse South Asian markets. From addressing food safety and sustainability challenges to capitalizing on growth opportunities in ready-to-eat foods and poultry processing, Mulmule discusses JBT Marel’s strategy for driving innovation and collaboration across the region. IBT: How do you tailor JBT Marel’s global FoodTech and Automated Systems solutions to meet the unique needs and market realities of the South Asia subcontinent — especially in diverse markets like India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka? Vikram Mulmule: At JBT Marel, we recognize the unique dynamics of the South Asian market, including India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Our approach is deeply rooted in understanding local needs and regulatory landscapes. We customize our FoodTech and Automated Systems solutions to align with regional demands, ensuring our technologies can handle local food products and operational practices. By partnering with local companies and institutions, we enhance our market presence and foster innovation tailored to regional conditions. Our commitment extends to offering comprehensive training and support, empowering local operators with the skills needed to maximize our technologies’ benefits. The opening of our Global Production Center (GPC) in Pune, India, further strengthens our ability to serve the South Asian market. This facility acts as a hub for innovation and collaboration, allowing us to develop and test solutions that meet local requirements. It enhances our capacity to deliver sustainable, efficient, and culturally sensitive solutions, driving growth and innovation across the region. IBT: What impact do you expect the new India-based GPC to have on lead times, cost-efficiency, after-sales service and customer support across South Asia? Vikram Mulmule: The Global Production Center (GPC) in Pune is a strategic investment designed to transform how we serve South Asia. By localizing testing, validation, and process optimization, we significantly reduce lead times—customers no longer need to ship products overseas for trials & validation. This accelerates decision-making and implementation. Cost-efficiency improves because we can tailor solutions locally, minimizing logistics and customization expenses. The GPC also strengthens after-sales service: our regional experts provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and operator training right here in India, ensuring faster response times and higher uptime. Finally, customer support becomes more collaborative. The GPC acts as an innovation hub where we can co-develop solutions with direct processors and validate recipes, optimize production lines under real market conditions. This proximity and partnership approach will help South Asian food processors adopt advanced technologies with more confidence and trust.    Frigoscandia – ©FloFreeze Freezer (True Fluidized Bed Freezer) IBT: How is JBT Marel leveraging its technology and service offerings in South Asia to address challenges of food safety, yield optimization and sustainability — and what are the biggest obstacles you encounter? Vikram Mulmule: JBT Marel is tackling South Asia’s food industry challenges through advanced technology and localized service. Food safety is non-negotiable, so we integrate automated hygiene controls, traceability systems, and precision processing to meet stringent standards. Yield optimization is driven by smart equipment that minimizes waste and maximizes throughput—even with variable raw material quality common in the region. Our efficient freezing solutions, including high-performance spiral, IQF’s and impingement freezers, lock in product quality and reduce drip loss, ensuring superior yield and shelf life. Sustainability is embedded in our designs – energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and carbon-reducing solutions are central to our offerings. The Global Process Center (GPC) in Pune strengthens this approach by enabling local trials, recipe validation, and process optimization. Combined with Innova software for real-time data insights and PROCARE Service ARC for proactive maintenance, we deliver end-to-end solutions that empower South Asian processors to achieve safety, efficiency, and sustainability. IBT: Which segments — e.g. meat/meat-processing, ready-to-eat, fruit/vegetable processing, beverages — do you see as the fastest growth opportunities in South Asia over the next 3–5 years, and why? Vikram Mulmule: In South Asia, several food processing segments are poised for substantial growth over the next 3-5 years, driven by evolving consumer preferences and economic development. The Ready-to-Eat (RTE) foods segment is experiencing rapid expansion, fueled by fast-paced urban lifestyles and increasing disposable incomes. Consumers are seeking convenient meal solutions, making RTE foods a prime area for growth. JBT Marel’s innovative packaging and preservation technologies support this growth which help extend shelf life while maintaining product quality. The poultry and seafood industry is set for significant growth as well. With a growing middle class and an increasing focus on protein-rich diets, there’s a rising demand for processed poultry and other protein products. Our advanced processing solutions help enhance efficiency and product quality at each step in the process. Fruit and vegetable processing is another segment with strong growth potential. As health consciousness rises, there’s increasing demand for processed fruits and vegetables, including juices, purees, and frozen products. JBT Marel’s cutting-edge preservation technologies now manufactured in India at GPC Pune, helps maintain nutritional value and extend shelf life, catering to health-focused consumers. Lastly, the beverage sector, particularly non-alcoholic drinks like juices, health drinks, and functional beverages, is booming. This growth is driven by consumer interest in health and wellness products. All these segments share common drivers: changing consumer habits, stricter food safety regulations, and the push for sustainability. Challenges like fragmented supply chains and cost sensitivity persist, but with localized innovation & manufacturing from our Global Production Center together with robust local Service support —we aim to help processors in South Asia meet these demands efficiently and sustainably. IBT: What is your strategy for building and scaling after-sales service, training (e.g. operator training), and customer support infrastructure in South Asia to ensure clients can fully leverage JBT Marel systems? Vikram Mulmule: Our strategy for building and scaling after-sales service, training, and customer support infrastructure in South

As pet care transcends mere companionship to become a reflection of lifestyle and wellness, few stories capture this shift better than that of Dogsee Chew. At the forefront of this transformation is Bhupendra Kanal, whose journey from the Himalayas to global pet-care shelves exemplifies vision, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit. In this interview with India Business and Trade, Bhupendra Khanal chronicles the rise of Dogsee Chew—from humble beginnings in Darjeeling dairies to exporting high-protein, 100% natural pet treats to over 30 countries. As demand for clean, chemical-free, and ethically produced pet nutrition surges worldwide, Dogsee Chew’s story offers a compelling blueprint for entrepreneurs aiming to build global-scale impact from India. IBT: Could you walk us through the founding vision behind Dogsee Chew? How did the idea take shape in 2015, and what early challenges did you navigate? Bhupendra Kanal: The idea emerged during a visit to a friend’s dairy in Darjeeling, where we noticed local dogs stealing traditional Himalayan chews. As pet parents, we were curious and brought back 22 kg to Bangalore for study. The product turned out to have over 65% protein—higher than any dental treat globally—and was 100% natural, vegetarian, and handcrafted. This aligned with what we wanted for our own pet. The emotional pull of taking something from the Himalayas to the world further strengthened the vision. Early challenges, however, were around production—training villagers and small dairies to make the chews consistently and scaling supply. IBT: At what point did Dogsee Chew hit its growth inflection, and how did international markets shape your strategy and product development? Bhupendra Kanal: Initially, India wasn’t fully ready for the product due to its premium nature. But once we explored global markets, the response was overwhelming. Our first pallet order from Spain and then a container order from a UK client proved to be turning points. Global buyers valued the Himalayan origin story, high protein content, and natural ingredients. Their trust pushed us to scale manufacturing, improve consistency, and strengthen processes. IBT: How has India’s pet nutrition market evolved, especially regarding natural and single-ingredient products? Bhupendra Kanal: When we began, most products in India were by-products of the meat or leather industry and heavily dependent on additives. But consumers soon became very aware—they wanted clean, natural ingredients for their pets, just like for themselves. This shift aligned with our philosophy, and we expanded into freeze-dried foods, herbal Ayurvedic shampoos, and other natural products. The market’s growing awareness, from vets to pet parents, has supported this transition. IBT: How would you compare Indian pet parents with those in mature markets like the US or Europe? Are there key differences? Bhupendra Kanal: Western markets are structurally more mature, with established grooming chains, veterinary networks, and higher purchasing power. But in terms of awareness, Tier-1 Indian pet parents are equally—if not more—vocal and questioning. Indian consumers probe ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing standards far more. This involvement is a strength and a key driver of quality improvements in the sector. Structurally, India is still catching up, but awareness levels are on par. IBT: As a major exporter, what challenges did you face with sourcing, supply chain logistics, and regulatory compliance? Bhupendra Kanal: Coming from software and advertising backgrounds, we lacked FMCG experience. So we hired strong manufacturing and quality experts and adopted a “build world-class or nothing” mindset. We invested in top global certifications such as BRC, C-TPAT, BSCI, and built a zero-waste, solar-powered, carbon-negative facility. Our booths at global trade fairs were also world-class, helping us gain trust quickly. Building this entire ecosystem—from packaging to compliance—was challenging but essential for global acceptance. IBT: With a diverse product portfolio, how do you maintain consistent quality and nutritional reliability? Bhupendra Kanal: Quality is our non-negotiable. We often reject entire batches from vendors for even minor deviations. The company follows 5S principles and is always audit-ready. We built a strong internal team with leaders who were previously at global giants like Almarai. This keeps our quality systems aligned with global benchmarks. A ruthless focus on quality is what enables us to scale without compromise. IBT: From a policy perspective, what support from the Government of India could help the sector scale globally? Bhupendra Kanal: We’ve received strong support from agencies like DGFT, EPCs, and state authorities. However, the biggest gap is the absence of a dedicated pet food or veterinary division under FSSAI—something equivalent to the USFDA’s pet food segment. Another issue is lack of reciprocal access. Countries like Thailand and China can easily sell in India, but Indian exporters face far tougher entry barriers. Equal market access or reciprocity is essential if India wants to compete globally in this category. IBT: Looking ahead to 2035, how do you see India’s potential in global pet treats, nutrition, and wellness? What must the industry focus on? Bhupendra Kanal: India has no option but to grow. We have 3.6% of the world’s population but contribute only 0.03% to the global pet trade. Given our massive dairy base—22% of global milk production—and agricultural strength, we can easily command 3–4% of global market share. To achieve this, India must build manufacturing-led capacity, not just brands. Large factories, strong quality culture, and long-term capex investment are crucial. We cannot depend on a trading-led ecosystem—we must build like China and Vietnam if we want to lead globally. Bhupendra Khanal is the Co-founder & CEO of Dogsee, one of India’s fastest-growing natural pet food brands. A serial entrepreneur and data scientist, he has built multiple ventures across AI, analytics, and consumer products. Under his leadership, Dogsee has expanded to global markets with a strong focus on clean-label, Himalayan-sourced treats. He is widely recognised for blending technology, sustainability, and brand storytelling to scale disruptive businesses.

In an era where India’s food processing and cold chain sectors are rapidly expanding, Natural Storage Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (NSSPL) stands out as a driving force of technological progress. In conversation with India Business and Trade, Yogesh Dahiya, Managing Director, NSSPL shares how the company is advancing post-harvest efficiency through innovation, engineering excellence, and customer-focused solutions across India and global markets. As demand for high-quality refrigeration and modern processing systems rises, NSSPL continues to lead with turnkey, energy-efficient, and future-ready technologies. IBT: Natural Storage Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (NSSPL) has established itself as a leading designer and manufacturer of industrial refrigeration systems and food processing lines. What key factors or guiding principles have driven the company’s consistent growth and reputation for excellence in both domestic and international markets? Yogesh Dahiya: NSSPL’s consistent growth and strong reputation stem from its clear commitment to delivering complete turnkey solutions—encompassing design, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and comprehensive post-commissioning support, including plant training, education, and more. This end-to-end approach is reinforced by engineering excellence, customer-centric innovation, and uncompromising product quality. The company places strong emphasis on understanding each client’s specific requirements and delivering highly reliable, energy-efficient refrigeration and food-processing systems that ensure long-term value. Continuous investment in advanced technologies, adherence to global manufacturing standards, and ongoing team skill development enable NSSPL’s solutions to meet international performance benchmarks consistently. Additionally, timely service support and long-term customer partnerships have helped the company earn enduring trust across domestic and international markets as a leading provider of turnkey post-harvest solutions. IBT: With India’s rising demand for cold storage and food preservation infrastructure, how is NSSPL leveraging this opportunity to expand its footprint and support the modernization of India’s cold chain ecosystem? Yogesh Dahiya: NSSPL is strategically leveraging India’s rapidly growing demand for cold storage and food preservation infrastructure by introducing highly advanced, cost-effective technologies that reduce CAPEX and significantly extend the shelf life of perishable products. Deeply committed to innovation, the company has executed several landmark projects across the country, particularly in developing large-scale bulk and box cold storage facilities equipped with precision cooling, automation, and intelligent control systems. These state-of-the-art installations ensure uniform temperature, minimal product loss, and consistent quality throughout the year, even for high-volume storage. Through its comprehensive turnkey capabilities—including design, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and extensive operator training—NSSPL is not only expanding its national footprint but also playing a key role in modernizing India’s cold chain ecosystem. With enhanced post-harvest handling systems and cutting-edge cold chain infrastructure, NSSPL provides vital support to farmers, processors, and logistics providers, helping them maintain product quality while adapting to India’s rapidly expanding food market. IBT: Innovation and technology are at the core of NSSPL’s solutions, from controlled atmosphere systems to automated grading and data acquisition. Could you share how your R&D initiatives are helping enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality in cold storage applications? Yogesh Dahiya: NSSPL has successfully implemented and tested gamma radiation treatment on onions for long-term storage, supported by detailed R&D collaboration with BARC. NSSPL’s R&D philosophy is driven by the belief that post-harvest solutions must evolve into more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable systems—and that innovation is the pathway to this transformation. The company has introduced advanced modified-atmosphere and controlled-atmosphere storage solutions with precise atmospheric regulation and enhanced ventilation, allowing perishables to stay fresh for longer while reducing losses caused by improper storage conditions. These systems are integrated with smart sensors and data acquisition tools, providing operators with real-time insights into storage performance and enabling immediate corrective action when required. NSSPL has also developed advanced automated bulk and box storage solutions that offer excellent air circulation, reduced energy consumption, and stable performance even at large capacities. Additionally, its innovative handling systems—such as graders, conveyors, and filling units—minimize manual intervention, reduce operational errors, and maintain product integrity throughout the handling process. With these advancements, NSSPL is not only strengthening efficiency and sustainability but also setting new industry benchmarks for product quality and cold chain reliability. IBT: NSSPL has built strong global associations and a growing export presence. How do these international collaborations strengthen your product offerings, and what strategies are you adopting to further penetrate emerging global markets? Yogesh Dahiya: NSSPL’s global associations reflect its unwavering commitment to delivering world-class, future-ready solutions. By strategically partnering with industry leaders—IVI from Idaho, USA for advanced ventilation systems; GEA HRT from Frankfurt, Germany as an authorized HRT Packager; VH Vertical from the Netherlands for reliable packaging innovations; Boema SpA from Italy for state-of-the-art food processing equipment; Marcelissen from the Netherlands for precision peeling and slicing solutions; and Isolcell from Italy for advanced controlled-atmosphere technology—NSSPL brings unmatched global expertise to every project it undertakes. Its pioneering collaboration with BARC to successfully implement gamma radiation technology for potato sprout inhibition further underscores the company’s drive to push scientific boundaries. These partnerships enhance NSSPL’s understanding of diverse regulatory environments, regional conditions, and customer requirements, enabling the company to tailor its systems for optimal performance across global markets. To strengthen its presence in emerging regions, NSSPL is focusing on market-specific product adaptations, expanding local partnerships, accelerating technology transfer and knowledge exchange, enhancing remote support and after-sales infrastructure, and increasing participation in international trade platforms. Through these efforts, the company continues to build a resilient global footprint and deliver high-value, future-ready solutions to customers worldwide. IBT: As the Managing Director of NSSPL, what is your long-term vision for the company in shaping the future of cold chain and Food processing solutions, both in India and globally? Yogesh Dahiya: As the Managing Director of NSSPL, my long-term vision is to position the company as a global leader in delivering turnkey, advanced, energy-efficient, and technology-driven cold chain and food processing solutions, while contributing meaningfully to the Make in India mission through the domestic development and manufacturing of world-class technologies. I aim to build a fully integrated ecosystem that enhances farm-to-fork efficiency, reduces post-harvest losses, and ensures consistent product quality by leveraging smart refrigeration systems, IoT-enabled monitoring, automation, and sustainable engineering practices. By producing high-performance equipment in India and fostering