Consumer Outreach
Workshop for Consumers & Influencers to Enable Wider Adoption of Organic Food
Sivakasi
CREATE (Consumer Research, Education, Action, Training and Empowerment) jointly organized a one-day workshop for Consumer Influencers to promote the consumption of organic produce, in association with CPSC (Consumer Protection Service Center) of Sivakasi on 20th March 2025. More than 200 women, including students from Arumugham Palaniguru Arts & Science College for Women, organic farmers, and youth, participated in the event.
Prof. Dr. P. Duraisingam, Chairman of CREATE, delivered the presidential address and explained the objective of the workshop. Highlighting CREATE’s efforts to benefit both consumers and farmers, he emphasized the revival of traditional farming practices, the conservation of traditional paddy seeds, and the promotion of a poison-free food culture. He also noted that CREATE has collaborated with NIFTEM-T, Thanjavur to scientifically analyze the nutritional and medicinal properties of 15 traditional rice varieties. This data is being shared with consumers and policymakers to integrate organic food into mainstream consumption. He urged the State to include traditional rice in the ICDS scheme to enhance children’s and youth’s physical and mental health, IQ, and behavior.
Mrs. Sangeeta, Mayor of Sivakasi Corporation, delivered the keynote address, applauding the organizers for targeting women associated with ICDS and college students in raising awareness on safe food. Recalling her own childhood experiences with food production and preparation, she emphasized the value of healthy family-centered food practices. She agreed to explore introducing organic items in the Corporation canteen, in collaboration with Thenkani, a group of local organic farmers.
Two thematic sessions were held: (i) “How to bring organic foods to the common man’s plate” and (ii) “The need for stakeholder partnerships in strengthening the organic supply chain.” Participants included Dr. G. Selvaraj (Food Safety Officer), Dr. M. Kathiresan (Joint Director, Retd., Health Dept.), Mrs. Veeralakshmi (Project Officer, ICDS), Mr. Ayyappan (Asst. Agri Officer), Mr. Karupusamy (Thenkani Organic Farmers Association), and Mr. A. Vijayakumar (Project Director, Human Resource Foundation).
Speakers highlighted the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and various cancers, and their links to pesticide exposure. They emphasized the importance of following a balanced diet based on the recommended food pyramid—rich in fruits and vegetables, moderate in cereals and pulses, and low in oil, salt, and sugar—ideally sourced from organic, seasonal, and local produce. The significance of regular exercise, walking, and yoga was also stressed. Households were encouraged to establish kitchen or rooftop gardens to grow their own food.
Mr. Suresh Kanna, Project Director of CREATE, moderated the workshop. The gathering was welcomed by the State President of CPSC, and Mrs. Eswari, District Women Coordinator of CPSC, delivered the vote of thanks.
