The Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology (COXBIT) at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University, Coimbatore along with The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council
(BIRAC) and The Tamil Nadu Agri Processing and Exports (TNAPEx), jointly organized The Food
& Natural Products Innovation Expo’2025 on 20.12.2025 and 21.12.2025. The expo aims to spotlight
advancements, sustainable solutions and emerging opportunities in food technology and natural
products development. This expo includes four technical sessions, pitch fest for student innovators,
drawing as well as cooking competitions, display of food and natural products developed by private
as well as public funded organizations. Participants included students from various schools, colleges
and other institutions.
The inaugural ceremony began with a formal welcome address by Dr. E. Kokiladevi, HOD
(Plant Biotechnology). Dr. N. Senthil, Director (CPMB & B) delivered the introductory address.
Dr.K. Subramanian, Acting Vice Chancellor of TNAU delivered the Presidential Address while,
Dr.Palanivelu, Chairman of GEM Hospitals, Coimbatore delivered the Chief Guest Address. The
Inauguration Ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. L. Arul, HOD (DPMB & B).
The first technical session on ‘Microgreens’ was presided by Dr. R. Umarani, Director Seed
Centre. Dr. C. Indu Rani, Professor & Head (Vegetable Science) and Dr. C. Vanitha, Associate
Professor (Seed Science and Technology) delivered talks on the topics “Master the Science of
Microgreens” and ‘Microgreens- Nature’s Little Food’, respectively on 20.12.2025. The speakers
explained the scientific principles behind microgreen growth, emphasizing their high nutritional
value, short growth cycle, and suitability for indoor and terrace farming. This session was organized
by Dr. S. Vellaikumar, Associate Professor and Dr. Ameena Premnath, Women Scientist of the DPB.
The second technical session was on the topic “Organic Backyard and Terrace Gardening”.
This session was organized with the objectives of creating awareness about sustainable food
production and eco-friendly gardening practices. The session was led by Mrs. Priya Sivaprakasam,
Founder & Influencer- Organic Farmer Store. The speaker explained the importance of growing
chemical-free vegetables and herbs at home and highlighted how backyard and terrace gardens
contribute to environmental protection, food security, and healthy living. This session was organized
by Dr. R. Renuka, Professor and Dr. K. Dhivya, TA of the DPB.
The afternoon session was led by Mr. Rama Shanmugam, popularly known as “Aloe Vera
Ayya”, from Nanic Ayurveda, a renowned advocate and practitioner of natural healing and Aloe
Vera-based wellness. Drawing from his extensive experience, the speaker explained the significance of Aloe Vera as a medicinal plant and its role in traditional and modern health practices. This session
was organized by Dr. D. Amirtham, Associate Professor, DPMB & B and Dr. Radhamani, TA, DPB.
A drawing competition on the theme “Earth Through My Eyes” was also held for the school
going children of age 7-13 yrs. The first prize was awarded to S.Aradhana (Std II, Chinmaya
Vidyalaya), Second prize to Sai Aishwarya Lakshmi (Std V, Delhi Public School) and Third prize to
Sarva Dev (BVP Public School). The winners were appreciated for their outstanding artistic talent
and innovative ideas. Participants were awarded with participation certificates and stationery kit.
The first day of the Food and Natural Products Innovation Expo 2025 concluded on a highly
productive note, marking a successful beginning to the event. The day featured insightful technical
sessions, innovative product showcases, and engaging interactions among researchers, entrepreneurs,
industry experts, and participants. The enthusiasm and active participation reflected a shared
commitment to advancing sustainable, health-focused, and innovative solutions in the food and
natural products sector.
In order to encourage children, no-fire cooking competitions were conducted and prizes were
awarded. The expo was visited by students of different schools / colleges, entrepreneurs as well as
by the general public and government officials. Also, the exhibits in different stalls were evaluated
and prizes were also given for three best stall exhibitors. The expo concluded with a valedictory
session on December 21, 2025. Ms. R. Maruthip Priya, Revenue Divisional Officer, Coimbatore
(South) served as the Chief Guest and delivered the Chief Guest Address besides honouring the prize
winners in different categories. University officers Dr. N. Senthil, Director (COXBIT) and
Dr.K.Venkatesan, Dean (Hort) also participated in the valedictory session.
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
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