Indigenously yours

The north east region of India has its unique charm and appeal. Reels have been made and words written on its picturesque and pristine ecosystem. Interestingly so, Shillong the capital of Meghalaya, recently played host to an event that celebrates and values the indigenous heritage which enriches the world. The Indigenous Terra Madre 2015 (ITM), was held there to focus on the benefits of slow food and to further strengthen indigenous food traditions and the slow food movement in India and the world over. This event probably went unnoticed, though it hosted around 640 delegates from 58 countries. From Papua New Guinea to Solomon Islands, from Botswana to the North Russia there were people from across nations who had gathered in Shillong for five days to speak about what it takes to appreciate one’s roots.

Food & Hospitality World was part of the select media delegation and was fortunate to witness an event that was so away from the cliché and ready to commit in practice for a better tomorrow. One of the speakers at the event was Carlo Petrini, founder of Slow Food International. Petrini made an impassioned case for “every government to take decisions”. He lamented, “Food has lost its value, becoming just a commodity; we are losing our histories and food heritage. Only a return to local economies will change the paradigm of the current food systems.” He also argued that we must not only talk but act.

Act we must. The recent civil aviation policy seems committed to further connect the north east to the capital and other leading cities in the country. Aviation connectivity will lead to infrastructure development but again development needs to be sustainable and organised. In a special interaction with FHW, Dr Mukul Sangma, chief minister, Meghalaya informed that his government has a strong focus on developing the hospitality sector in the state, and to attract potential investors it is looking at developing land banks for attracting hotel projects. He also stated that they are looking at certain locations which are ideal for high end hotels to be located and the work is on in that direction. The CM aims to project the state as a high end destination for leisure and MICE travellers.

Another interesting story in this issue is on GROHE. Since 2009, water fittings manufacturer GROHE has cooperated with Don Bosco Mondo with a view to help young people better their lives. To date around 780 young people in Mumbai have been given the opportunity to start a new life as a result of this collaboration. Companies like these need to be applauded for their commitment towards sustainable development.

Reema Lokesh
Editor