Madhya Pradesh is gearing up to host the “BRICS Agriculture Working Group” meeting and the Agriculture Ministers’ conference in Indore from June 9 to 13. Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed pride in this global event being held in India and Madhya Pradesh. The discussions will focus on crucial global issues like food security, sustainable agriculture, and the empowerment of small farmers.
The BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in 2016 during India’s presidency, will enhance research and technical cooperation among member nations. The agenda includes official-level meetings from June 9 to 11, followed by the Agriculture Ministers’ meeting on June 12 and 13, concluding with a joint declaration. Delegates will have the opportunity to explore Indore and Madhya Pradesh’s cultural heritage by visiting landmarks such as Rajwada, 56 Dukan, and Mandu.
BRICS countries collectively hold substantial influence in global agriculture, with 42% of global agricultural land and production. These nations are home to nearly 70% of the world’s 580 million farmers, emphasizing the importance of their agricultural dialogue for global food security. Minister Chouhan outlined four main priorities for the Agriculture Working Group, including food security, agricultural trade, climate-resilient agriculture, and innovation partnerships.
A special session focusing on “Future Food Security through Women and Youth” is scheduled for June 12, recognizing the significant roles played by women in agriculture and youth in adopting new technologies. Challenges such as climate change, erratic weather patterns, food waste, and limited resources for small farmers will be discussed. The conversations will center on regenerative farming, enhancing storage and supply chains, improving market connectivity, and boosting farmers’ incomes through allied sectors like animal husbandry and fisheries.
