BRICS countries have unanimously agreed to the Indore Declaration, focusing on bolstering food security, farmer welfare, climate-resilient agriculture, and digital farming. The declaration, endorsed during the BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Indore, signifies the collective commitment of BRICS nations towards a more secure and prosperous agricultural future. This meeting, held under India’s BRICS Presidency, saw the participation of nearly 100 delegates, including representatives from BRICS member and partner countries.
The Indore Declaration emerged after thorough discussions on key areas such as food and nutritional security, promotion of agricultural trade, sustainable farming practices, and innovation in agriculture. As a result, BRICS nations have agreed to establish four new cooperation platforms. These platforms include the BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence on Agro-Ecology and Regenerative Agriculture, with India’s Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research playing a pivotal role.
Moreover, the BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture will concentrate on collaboration in artificial intelligence, geospatial technologies, and data-driven agricultural solutions. Additionally, a Global Forum on Farmers’ Rights in Seed Systems will be formed to safeguard farmers’ seed rights and traditional agricultural knowledge. The fourth initiative, BRICS AgriN, aims to enhance cooperation in agricultural inputs, genetic resources, and technical exchanges among member nations.
BRICS countries have also committed to strengthening the existing BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, transforming it into a robust ‘Knowledge-to-Action Hub’ for the swift implementation of innovations in agriculture. Indian government’s support for farmers remains steadfast, ensuring affordable fertiliser supplies despite escalating global input costs.
