India Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture at 15th BRICS Meeting
At the recent 15th meeting of BRICS Agriculture Ministers, India reaffirmed its dedication to fostering inclusive, equitable, and sustainable agricultural practices. Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the critical role of small and marginal farmers in global agricultural strategies, highlighting that agriculture is not just an economic activity in India but a vital source of livelihood and dignity for millions. He stressed that achieving global food security and rural development goals hinges on the protection and empowerment of these farmers.
Empowering Smallholder Farmers
During the meeting, Minister Chouhan pointed out that the world’s 510 million smallholder farmers are essential to the global food system yet remain highly vulnerable to challenges such as climate change, price fluctuations, and resource scarcity. He argued that these farmers cannot be left to navigate these issues alone and called for robust policy support to aid them. Chouhan proposed several strategies for collective empowerment, including cluster-based farming, the establishment of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), cooperative models, and the promotion of natural farming practices. These approaches aim to enhance market access for small farmers and improve their overall livelihoods.
Ensuring Fair Agricultural Trade
The meeting also addressed the necessity of fair agricultural trade and the importance of controlling global price volatility. Chouhan reiterated the need for public food stockholding systems, minimum support prices (MSP), and value chains that connect smallholders directly to consumers. He highlighted India’s effective food storage and distribution capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which enabled the distribution of free rations to over 800 million people. This example underscores the importance of a robust agricultural framework that supports small farmers and ensures food security.
Technological Innovations in Agriculture
Minister Chouhan shared India’s technological initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural practices, including the Digital Agriculture Mission, AgriStack, and the use of drone technology. He noted that these innovations have significantly improved service delivery, transparency, and farmer incomes. Additionally, he mentioned initiatives like Lakhpati Didi and Drone Didi, which focus on empowering rural women socially and economically. Chouhan emphasized that empowering women is a crucial mission for India, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality in agriculture.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Agriculture
The meeting culminated in the launch of the “BRICS Land Restoration Partnership,” aimed at addressing land degradation, desertification, and soil fertility loss. Chouhan supported this initiative, stating it would benefit small farmers, tribal communities, and local cultivators by merging traditional knowledge with scientific innovation. The Joint Declaration from the BRICS nations reaffirmed their commitment to creating a fair, inclusive, and sustainable global agri-food system. It emphasized food security, climate adaptation, and the empowerment of women and youth, while also promoting financial and trade mechanisms for the agricultural economies of the Global South. In closing, Chouhan invited BRICS nations to participate in upcoming global events, reinforcing India’s leadership role on the international agricultural stage.
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