New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) on August 3, marking a significant milestone as the event returns to India after 65 years. The conference, held at the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex, has drawn over 1,000 delegates from around 70 countries, focusing on the theme "Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems."
In his address, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's transformation from a nation dealing with food security post-independence to a food surplus powerhouse. "India is now the world's top producer of milk, pulses, and spices, and the second-largest producer of food grains, fruits, vegetables, cotton, sugar, and tea", he stated. This shift not only underscores India's agricultural prowess but also its role in providing solutions for global food and nutritional security.
Agricultural Achievements and Initiatives
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the central role of agriculture in India's economic policies, as reflected in the Union Budget 2024-25's focus on sustainable and climate-adaptive farming. He announced that in the last decade, India has developed 1,900 new climate-resilient crop varieties, promoting chemical-free natural farming and aiming for a 20% ethanol blending target in petrol.
Highlighting the significance of small farmers, who constitute 90% of Indian agriculturists, Modi noted their crucial contribution to the nation's food security. "These small farmers are our biggest strength", he said, drawing parallels with similar agricultural dynamics in other developing countries in Asia.
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Technological and Sustainable Advancements
India is expanding digital technology to revolutionize agriculture, with initiatives such as the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, which transfers funds to farmers' bank accounts with a single click, and a digital public infrastructure for real-time crop surveys. The digitization of land records and the promotion of drones in farming are other key steps aimed at enhancing productivity and efficiency.
The Prime Minister also addressed the critical issues of nutrition, water scarcity, and climate change, presenting millet (Shri Anna) as a superfood solution. "India is ready to share its millet basket with the world", he declared, underscoring the crop's minimal water requirement and high yield.
Global Impact and Future Directions
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and NITI Aayog member, Professor Ramesh Chandra, also spoke at the event, highlighting India's agricultural growth and sustainable practices. Chouhan emphasized the need to eliminate hunger and malnutrition, tackle climate change, and ensure safe production methods for human health and soil well-being.
The conference provides a platform for young researchers and leading professionals to present their work, network, and form partnerships that influence policymaking on national and global scales. Professor Matin Qaim, President of ICAE 2024, stressed the need for a multi-directional approach to address agricultural challenges, combining science, technology, political will, societal openness, and international cooperation.
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India's Vision for Global Welfare
Seeing India's commitment to global welfare, Prime Minister Modi cited the mantras of 'One Earth, One Family and One Future', 'Mission LiFE' and 'One Earth One Health'. He emphasized a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture and food systems, stating,
"Challenges before sustainable agriculture can only be tackled under the holistic approach of One Earth, One Family, and One Future."
As the conference progresses from August 3 to August 7, it aims to foster discussions and collaborations that will advance sustainable agri-food systems globally. Modi expressed optimism that the event will yield valuable insights and innovative solutions, strengthening global food security and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers worldwide.
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This landmark event not only showcases India's agricultural advancements but also positions the country as a leader in addressing global agricultural challenges, finding the way for a sustainable future.
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