What Innovations Did India Present at IFAD–India Day in Rome?
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Synopsis
India recently highlighted its remarkable achievements at the IFAD–India Day in Rome, showcasing innovations in rural development, women's empowerment, and climate resilience. Discover how India's initiatives are setting global benchmarks and fostering sustainable growth for rural communities.
Key Takeaways
- India's model of women's collectives has gained international recognition.
- Over $4.4 billion has been invested in rural development projects with IFAD.
- Current ongoing projects total $459 million.
- India's initiatives aim to enhance market access and income for rural communities.
- IFAD President praised India's scalable rural transformation efforts.
New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) During the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)–India Day in Rome, India highlighted its significant strides in rural development, women's empowerment, and climate-resilient agriculture, as stated in an official announcement on Friday.
The nation’s globally acclaimed model of women's collectives has transitioned from modest savings groups into substantial economic entities, exemplifying community-driven change with worldwide applicability, according to the Ministry of Finance.
Over the course of 48 years, India and IFAD have collaborated on 36 rural development initiatives totaling $4.4 billion, with IFAD contributing $1.5 billion directly, the statement detailed.
Currently, India oversees six ongoing projects worth $459 million, boasting a co-financing ratio of 2.65, which is notably above global averages. This showcases India’s robust commitment and confidence in their partnership, as per the Ministry.
Flagship initiatives within the India–IFAD framework include greater market access for over 45,000 rural enterprises in Meghalaya and improved women's employability and income generation in Maharashtra.
Additionally, advancements in climate resilience for three lakh small and marginal farmers in Jammu and Kashmir, alongside income enhancement and migration reduction initiatives in Uttarakhand, were highlighted as significant collaborations.
IFAD President Alvaro Lario praised India’s leadership in fostering scalable, community-driven rural transformation and noted that numerous India–IFAD projects have emerged as global models.
Anu Mathai, Additional Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs and India's Alternate Governor to IFAD, emphasized that India's cooperative efforts with the organization are rooted in shared principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and community-driven progress.
The partnership, she stated, is “anchored in a unified vision that prioritizes rural communities in development.”
“IFAD has consistently been a reliable partner in empowering India to expand innovative, equitable, and sustainable rural livelihood strategies,” she added.
As a founding member of IFAD and one of its principal contributors, India maintains a pivotal role in South–South and Triangular Cooperation, driving rural institution-building and value chain development, the statement concluded.
Point of View
India's commitment to rural transformation and women's empowerment, as highlighted during the IFAD–India Day in Rome, reflects a pivotal approach to sustainable development. This initiative underscores the importance of community-led growth, aligning with India's broader vision of inclusive progress.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of India's participation in IFAD?
India's participation in IFAD underscores its commitment to enhancing rural development and women's empowerment, showcasing successful models that can be replicated globally.
How much has India invested in rural development projects with IFAD?
Over the last 48 years, India has collaborated with IFAD on 36 projects worth $4.4 billion, with IFAD contributing $1.5 billion directly.
What are the key initiatives highlighted by India at IFAD?
Key initiatives include improving market access for rural enterprises, enhancing women's employability, and advancing climate resilience for small farmers.
Who is Alvaro Lario?
Alvaro Lario is the President of IFAD, who acknowledged India's leadership in driving community-led rural transformations.
What is the co-financing ratio maintained by India with IFAD?
India maintains a co-financing ratio of 2.65, which is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting strong ownership of the partnership.
