Commerce Ministry clarifies: Govt giving only non-financial support to Bharat Rice Conference

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Commerce Ministry Clarifies: Govt Giving Only Non-Financial Support to Bharat International Rice Conference 2025

(Source: The Hindu BusinessLine, October 28, 2025)The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has clarified that the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, scheduled for October 30–31 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, is a privately organised event by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF). The government is extending only non-financial support to the conference.

KEY POINTS

• Event Organiser:
  The Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) — a private trade body — is solely organising the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025.
• Government’s Role:
  The Commerce Ministry and related departments are providing only non-financial and facilitative support, such as coordination with stakeholder ministries and trade promotion efforts.
• Clarification Context:
  The statement follows allegations against IREF President Prem Garg, with the ministry asserting that it has no role in IREF’s internal matters or appointments.
• Financial Arrangements:
  The entire expenditure — venue booking, logistics, travel, accommodation for buyers, and event hosting — is being borne entirely by IREF and its partners through their own funds and private sponsorships.
• Role of APEDA:
  The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is coordinating with relevant ministries to ensure a holistic approach to promoting rice exports but is not providing any financial assistance.

ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE

• Rice Exports in 2024–25:
  Valued at USD 12.95 billion, rice remains India’s leading agricultural export.
• India’s Position:
  India is the largest producer and exporter of rice globally, making the sector crucial for agri-trade and foreign exchange earnings.
• Purpose of BIRC 2025:
  To promote collaboration among exporters, policymakers, and trade partners for the expansion and diversification of India’s rice export markets.

STATIC BACKGROUND

• Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF):
  A private industry body representing stakeholders in the rice export ecosystem — including exporters, millers, traders, and logistics firms.
• APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority):
  • Established in 1986 under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act, 1985.
  • Functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • Promotes export of agricultural and processed food products, including rice, fruits, vegetables, and meat.
• Bharat Mandapam:
  A premier international exhibition and convention centre located at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, under the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

SIGNIFICANCE

• Reinforces the public–private collaboration model for trade promotion.
• Clarifies government neutrality in private trade associations.
• Highlights India’s focus on agricultural export competitiveness and sectoral self-sufficiency.
• Ensures transparency in event funding and reduces misinformation regarding state sponsorship.
  
  Updated - October 28, 2025 at 07:36 AM | Business Line