In a pioneering initiative, The Bengal Chamber organized The Horti Food Festival 2024 at the Netaji Indoor Stadium from 17th – 19th February, 2024, in collaboration with The Department of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture. The festival was inaugurated by Sri Arup Roy, Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, accompanied by Dr. Subrata Gupta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of FPI&H, Government of West Bengal, and other dignitaries. Mr. Gautam Ray, President of BCC&I and President-Corporate, RPSG Group, along with Mr. Jayanta Chakraborty, Chairperson, Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, BCC&I, were also present at the inaugural session.

The primary objective of the Horti Food Festival 2024 was to attract entrepreneurs for investment in the sector and disseminate modern technology to farmers. Serving as a platform to bring together stakeholders including entrepreneurs, business groups, farmers, academic institutions, and government departments, this convergence aimed to facilitate the showcasing of products and services, boost the export of processed foods, and facilitate the dissemination of technology from industries and academic institutions to farmers and other users.

Minister Arup Roy expressed his anticipation for the event, emphasizing its significance in promoting the agricultural industry and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. The festival boasted 75 stalls from various districts, featuring exhibitors such as 'Sufal Bangla', Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Anandadhara, Directorate of Chincona and other medicinal plants, Department of Science and Technology and Biotechnology, Govt of West Bengal, and many more. This diverse array of participants underscored the comprehensive approach to promoting agro industries in the state.

Over a three-day period, participants benefitted from the exhibitions, insightful discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. The festival served as a melting pot of innovation, knowledge exchange, and business development within the agricultural sector. It garnered widespread media coverage as well as the attention of social media influencers who created vlogs of the festival, further amplifying its reach and impact.

The Horti Food Festival 2024 not only showcased the potential of West Bengal's agricultural sector but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations, investments, and technological advancements, contributing to the overall growth and prosperity of the region.