India called upon BRICS nations to enhance cooperation, emphasizing the need to support small farmers, ensure food security, and promote sustainable agriculture globally. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the potential of collective efforts by BRICS countries to revolutionize global agriculture and foster a secure, sustainable, and inclusive agricultural future. Speaking at a conference in Indore, Chouhan underscored India’s agricultural accomplishments, cultural values, and dedication to international collaboration.
Chouhan emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening global agricultural partnerships under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which advocates for a unified global community. The conference served as a crucial platform to collectively address the challenges confronting small and marginal farmers worldwide, particularly those related to climate change, resource constraints, escalating input expenses, and market uncertainties. The Minister stressed that empowering small farmers is pivotal to enhancing global food security and sustainable agricultural progress.
Highlighting India’s agricultural growth, Chouhan revealed that the sector has achieved an average annual growth rate of nearly 4.5% over the past decade. He informed delegates that India’s total foodgrain production has now surpassed 376 million tonnes, showcasing sustained sectoral expansion. Additionally, wheat production has reached around 118 million tonnes, while horticulture output has exceeded 378 million tonnes. The Minister also noted a significant rise in fish production, surpassing 19 million tonnes, indicating comprehensive growth across various agricultural sectors.
India’s implementation of the world’s largest food security initiative was also underscored by Chouhan, ensuring food security for a substantial portion of the population. With approximately 43% of India’s workforce engaged in agriculture and allied activities, the sector stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy. Emphasizing the pivotal role of small and marginal farmers in India’s agricultural landscape, Chouhan highlighted that nearly 87% of the country’s farmers belong to this category.
