BRICS Endorses Indore Declaration; India to Spearhead Seed Rights and Digital Agriculture Initiatives
BRICS nations have adopted the “Indore Declaration,” committing to enhanced cooperation in agriculture and launching several initiatives, including a global forum on farmers’ seed rights and a digital agriculture network. This decision was made at the conclusion of a five-day meeting of agriculture ministers and officials from BRICS countries, held under India’s presidency. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that India will play a coordinating role in many of these new institutional mechanisms.
The Indore Declaration emphasizes the commitment of BRICS countries to strengthen food and nutrition security, improve the livelihoods of small and marginal farmers, and promote sustainable farming practices. The member nations also reiterated their support for a fair and transparent multilateral trading system while discussing measures to facilitate agricultural trade.
Global forum on farmers’ seed rights
A key outcome of the meeting is the establishment of a ‘Global Forum on Farmers’ Rights in Seed Systems.’ This initiative aims to promote farmers’ rights and preserve traditional knowledge related to seed systems. Chouhan confirmed that India will coordinate this forum, which will focus on the conservation of indigenous seed diversity and the protection of traditional agricultural knowledge.
India to coordinate AGRIN Network
BRICS countries have also agreed to create the BRICS AGRIN Network to enhance cooperation in agricultural inputs, genetic resources, and information-sharing. India will serve as the coordinating country for this network. Chouhan stated that the platform will facilitate the exchange of agricultural resources, technical information, and best practices among member nations.
Grain exchange proposal moves forward
The grouping has decided to continue discussions on operationalizing the proposed “BRICS Grain Exchange.” This initiative aims to strengthen foodgrain trade and supply chains among member countries. Chouhan noted that the exchange could improve foodgrain trade and enhance market linkages across BRICS nations.
Focus on climate-resilient farming
In response to climate change challenges, BRICS countries agreed to establish a ‘BRICS Centres of Excellence Network’ in agroecology and regenerative agriculture. The Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), will coordinate initial efforts for this initiative.
Digital agriculture network approved
The member nations endorsed the creation of a Digital Agriculture Network to promote the use of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, geospatial technologies, and other digital solutions in agriculture. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi will handle initial coordination for this network.
Research platform to become action hub
Chouhan announced that BRICS countries have agreed to strengthen the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, transforming it into a “Knowledge to Action Hub.” This initiative aims to ensure that research outcomes reach farmers more quickly. Approximately 100 delegates, including nearly 60 foreign representatives from member and partner countries, participated in the five-day meeting.
Chouhan emphasized that these decisions reflect the shared commitment of BRICS countries to address common agricultural challenges through innovation and technology. BRICS nations account for nearly half of the world’s population, 42% of global agricultural land, and contribute roughly 42% of global foodgrain production.
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