India Emphasizes the Importance of Small Farmers for Global Food Security at the BRICS Conference

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India Emphasizes the Importance of Small Farmers for Global Food Security at the BRICS Conference

Synopsis

During a recent conference in Brasilia, India's Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan underscored the critical role of small farmers and global food security, advocating for technological collaboration among BRICS nations.

Key Takeaways

  • Global food security is crucial for sustainable agriculture.
  • Empowerment of small farmers is essential.
  • Technological cooperation can enhance agricultural practices.
  • India aims to boost soybean production and exports.
  • Collaboration in agricultural technology is a priority.

Brasilia, April 20 (NationPress) India's Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Sunday, emphasized the significance of global food security, empowering small farmers, and fostering technological cooperation to enhance the partnership among BRICS nations during the conference in Brazil.

The Union Minister also highlighted the potential for increasing production and export of soya from India.

He expressed India's eagerness to provide its farmers with access to global technologies.

Leading the Indian delegation at the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers' meeting, Minister Chouhan conducted bilateral discussions with his counterpart from Brazil to bolster agricultural trade, technology, and innovation between the two nations.

The Union Minister affirmed India's unwavering commitment to inclusive, equitable, and sustainable agriculture.

Reflecting the essence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, he reiterated India's dedication to trust and cooperation with all nations.

He urged for improved collaboration in agricultural technology, innovation, capacity building, and trade facilitation so that farmers and agricultural businesses across countries can reap benefits.

Minister Chouhan's visit to Brazil represents a tangible step towards technological innovation, increasing production, and forming global partnerships for Indian agriculture, which could directly benefit farmers.

The 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in Brasilia was attended by Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from India, Brazil, and other BRICS member nations including Russia, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, The UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.

The primary focus of the gathering was promoting inclusive and sustainable agriculture through cooperation, innovation, and fair trade among BRICS countries.

Minister Chouhan's visit is anticipated to pave a new path for agricultural cooperation between India and Brazil, enhancing trade in this sector.

The Union Minister expressed his intention to exchange knowledge with Brazil regarding climate-friendly soybean varieties, mechanization, precision farming, and sustainable agricultural practices.

He also expressed interest in learning from Brazil's agricultural systems, including mechanization, irrigation, and research, to implement effective strategies in Indian agriculture for the benefit of farmers.

Topics such as biofuel, bioenergy, supply chain integration, and agricultural machinery were deliberated during the meetings, which would grant Indian farmers access to global technology.

Collaborative efforts between the two nations will also enhance global food security, as Brazil has accomplished significant growth in agricultural exports over the last 50 years, serving as an inspiration for India, according to an official announcement following the meeting.

During these discussions, enhancing cooperation in the realms of agriculture, agro-technology, rural development, and food security was on the agenda.

Minister Chouhan also visited a soybean production facility, a tomato farm, and other institutions in Brazil, closely examining the latest technologies in mechanization, irrigation, and food processing.

Currently, India imports soybean oil, but now both nations are collectively exploring investment opportunities and establishing technology and plants for soybean production and processing, which can enhance soybean production and export in India.

Minister Chouhan mentioned that there are plans to collaborate with Brazil to boost soybean production and processing in India.

Additionally, opportunities for cooperation between the two countries in mechanization and seed research will also be examined, he added.