Indore to host BRICS Agriculture Ministers meet, focus on small farmers, food security, climate resilience
Bhopal/Indore, June 8 Madhya Pradesh is set to shine on the global stage as Indore hosts the prestigious "BRICS Agriculture Working Group" meeting and the Agriculture Ministers' conference from June 9 to 13 under India's presidency of the grouping.
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressing a press conference in Bhopal, described the event as a proud moment for India and Madhya Pradesh.
The meetings will deliberate on critical global issues, including food security, sustainable agriculture, empowerment of small and marginal farmers, and agricultural innovation.
The BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, set up in 2016 during India's presidency, will further strengthen research and technical cooperation.
The schedule includes official-level meetings from June 9 to 11, followed by the Agriculture Ministers' meeting on June 12 and 13, culminating in a joint declaration.
Delegates will also experience Indore and Madhya Pradesh's rich cultural heritage through visits to landmarks like Rajwada, 56 Dukan, and Mandu.
BRICS nations command significant influence in world agriculture, accounting for 42 per cent of global agricultural land and over 42 per cent of agricultural production. Nearly 70 per cent of the world's 580 million farmers - mostly small and marginal - live in BRICS countries, making the bloc's agricultural dialogue vital for global food security.
Chouhan outlined four key priorities for the Agriculture Working Group -- food security and nutrition, agricultural trade and cooperation, climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture, and partnerships in innovation and research.
A special session on the theme "Future Food Security through Women and Youth" will be held on June 12, recognising the critical role of women in the agricultural workforce and youth in adopting new technologies.
The minister highlighted challenges such as climate change, erratic weather, food waste (nearly one billion tonnes annually), and limited resources for small farmers. Discussions will focus on regenerative farming, improving storage and supply chains, strengthening market connectivity, and promoting allied sectors like animal husbandry and fisheries to boost farmers' incomes. India has generated 9.80 crore farmer IDs and expanded the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to Rs 2 lakh crore for better post-harvest infrastructure.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see BRICS focusing on agriculture. 42% of global agricultural land and 70% of farmers - that's massive. India's leadership here makes sense given our agricultural heritage. The special session on women and youth participation is particularly timely.
Glad they're addressing food waste - one billion tonnes annually is shocking! Regenerative farming and better storage infrastructure are critical. However, I hope the discussions don't stay at the policy level. We need implementation on ground, especially for small farmers who struggle with market access. The 9.80 crore farmer IDs are a good start but need to be linked to real benefits.
BRICS nations together produce more than 40% of global agricultural output. That's serious food security influence. Climate resilience and sustainable practices are the way forward. India's experience with MSP and cooperative farming could offer lessons to other member countries.
Great initiative! But I hope the focus on 'empowerment of small farmers' isn't just lip service. Our farmers in rural areas still face debt cycles and lack of irrigation. Climate-smart agriculture is good, but what about subsidies? Support for organic farming? Need to walk the talk. Also, why isn't there more involvement of farmer unions in these discussions?
Indore representing! 🎉 So proud to see my city host such an important meet. The cultural tours to Rajwada and 56 Dukan are a smart touch - let our guests taste Indori poha and jalebi too. But seriously, hope the working group prioritizes climate adaptation for rain-fed areas, which most small farmers depend on.
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