March 27 is Officially India’s 1st Ice Cream Day - IICMA
In a novel move that will gladden the hearts of ice cream patrons across the country, the March 27 as the 1st Ice Cream Day. During an inaugural function in the Capital on Thursday, Shri S. P. Singh Baghel Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, lauded the ice cream industry’s significant contribution in the allied agro-industries, dairy and food processing sectors, employment generation and export potential.
The function was organized by the Indian Ice Cream Manufacturing Association (IICMA) and those who graced the occasion included the Guest of Honour Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO FSSAI, Mr. Sudhir Shah, President, IICMA Management committee, IICMA Members, Media and other industry dignitaries.
“The Indian ice cream sector has huge potential for creating a healthier a greener future — from adopting sustainable sourcing of raw material and packaging, using energy-efficient technologies and using natural products for flavours. Recognizing this, the government has already rolled out Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, FDI in food processing, and dairy sector subsidies that are boosting investments and modernizing the industry,” said Shri Baghel. The government is actively working to boost domestic consumption, attract investments, and enhance the entire supply chain, which includes farmers, suppliers, cold chain providers, and retailers.
India has seen a fourfold increase in ice cream consumption over the past ten years. with an annual growth rate that’s making it one of the fastest-growing ice cream markets in the world. The ice cream industry, Q-commerce and E-commerce (Swiggy, Blinkit, Zomato and mores) plays a significant role by addressing the demand for speed and convenience like On-Demand and safe Delivery. Q-commerce and E-commerce is helping ice cream brands adapt to the changing consumer demand for speed, convenience, and personalization. By tapping into this growing trend, ice cream businesses increase sales, improve customer loyalty, and reach new audiences and q-commerce platforms often operate late at night or during off-peak hours, catering to customers’ unpredictable desires.
This initiative aligns with the government’s essential objective of creating economic opportunities and empowering the agricultural and food processing sectors. Mr. Sudhir Shah, President of IICMA, praised the government’s initiative, stating, “Ice cream elevates dopamine and serotonin levels, which foster happiness. This day marks the onset of peak summer, school exams are over, birthdays, celebrations and weddings kickstart in a big way. With the Ice Cream Day, we are not just promoting a product, but are also creating an annual tradition that celebrates happiness, togetherness, and economic growth.” The stability of prices for essential ingredients, such as milk solids and packaging materials, has enabled manufacturers to maintain competitive pricing and enhance profitability. Consumers are increasingly attracted to premium, health-oriented, and innovative Flavors, leading brands to launch plant-based, low-sugar, Vegan ice cream and high-protein ice creams.
The government is also offering incentives to draw investments into the food processing sector, including subsidies, and infrastructure support. This strategic approach positions India as an attractive destination for both domestic and international investors looking to capitalize on the growing ice cream market. Rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and evolving consumer preferences are fuelling demand, especially in tier-1 and tier-2 cities.
Source : Dairynews7x7 March 31st 2025 PTI