How are India and Russia Strengthening Agricultural Cooperation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral agricultural trade
- Enhancing food security
- Increasing farmer incomes
- Formalizing partnerships through MoUs
- Promoting innovation in agriculture
New Delhi, Sep 26 (NationPress) Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a significant meeting with Dmitry Patrushev, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, on Friday. They engaged in constructive discussions on various topics of mutual interest, particularly focusing on enhancing bilateral trade and cooperation within the agriculture sector.
The dialogue spotlighted the need to boost agricultural trade between the nations, especially by increasing India's exports of agricultural products.
Chouhan emphasized the remarkable trust and understanding that define the long-standing partnership between India and Russia.
He outlined India's key priorities in agriculture, which include ensuring food security, increasing farmers' incomes, and enhancing access to safe, nutritious food for everyone.
Reiterating India's dedication to the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family), the minister stressed the significance of international collaboration for the welfare of farmers and the food security of citizens.
Deputy PM Patrushev acknowledged the enduring and strong cooperation between India and Russia across various sectors, particularly agriculture.
He expressed Russia’s desire to further strengthen agricultural trade ties and showed interest in formalizing this partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The discussions were centered on enhancing mutual collaboration in agriculture, focusing on balancing bilateral trade and fortifying technical partnerships.
The Indian delegation underscored the necessity of better market access in Russia for essential agricultural products and expressed optimism regarding the resolution of pending issues.
Both parties also agreed to enhance cooperation in academic exchanges and scholarship opportunities for students and to explore joint initiatives aimed at seed traceability systems, promoting innovation and technology-driven solutions in agriculture.
They reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering collaboration in agricultural trade, education, research, and development, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in the sector.