Kasturi Chitre, a renowned food scientist and quality assurance expert, has been appointed as a mentor for the MAARG program, guiding four innovative startups in the food and beverage sector. The MAARG program, an initiative by Startup India, provides startups with access to expert guidance and mentorship from industry veterans like Chitre, who brings nearly 15 years of experience in food science, regulatory standards, and quality management systems.

Chitre’s mentoring emphasizes high-quality standards, leveraging technological advancements, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Her extensive contributions to food science include numerous articles and speaking engagements. In recognition of her dedication to excellence, she received the 'Professional of the Year 2023' award from the All India Business Community Foundation (AIBCF).

For Chitre, mentoring for MAARG is deeply fulfilling. "It gives me immense satisfaction to give back to the community and support the next generation of entrepreneurs," she says. Her mentoring sessions focus on discussing business ideas from a food technology perspective and providing seasoned insights to startups.

Chitre’s role in MAARG aligns with her broader mission to enhance food safety and quality globally. She advocates for the adoption of advanced technologies and rigorous quality assurance processes to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands. Her guidance is set to shape the future of the startups she mentors, driving innovation and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in the food and beverage industry.