Bhopal/Indore, June 8 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh is set to shine on the global stage as Indore hosts the prestigious “BRICS Agriculture Working Group” meeting and the Agriculture Ministers’ conference from June 9 to 13 under India’s presidency of the grouping.

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressing a press conference in Bhopal, described the event as a proud moment for India and Madhya Pradesh.

The meetings will deliberate on critical global issues, including food security, sustainable agriculture, empowerment of small and marginal farmers, and agricultural innovation.

The BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, set up in 2016 during India’s presidency, will further strengthen research and technical cooperation.

The schedule includes official-level meetings from June 9 to 11, followed by the Agriculture Ministers’ meeting on June 12 and 13, culminating in a joint declaration.

Delegates will also experience Indore and Madhya Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage through visits to landmarks like Rajwada, 56 Dukan, and Mandu.

BRICS nations command significant influence in world agriculture, accounting for 42 per cent of global agricultural land and over 42 per cent of agricultural production. Nearly 70 per cent of the world’s 580 million farmers — mostly small and marginal — live in BRICS countries, making the bloc’s agricultural dialogue vital for global food security.

Chouhan outlined four key priorities for the Agriculture Working Group — food security and nutrition, agricultural trade and cooperation, climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture, and partnerships in innovation and research.

A special session on the theme “Future Food Security through Women and Youth” will be held on June 12, recognising the critical role of women in the agricultural workforce and youth in adopting new technologies.

The minister highlighted challenges such as climate change, erratic weather, food waste (nearly one billion tonnes annually), and limited resources for small farmers. Discussions will focus on regenerative farming, improving storage and supply chains, strengthening market connectivity, and promoting allied sectors like animal husbandry and fisheries to boost farmers’ incomes. India has generated 9.80 crore farmer IDs and expanded the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to Rs 2 lakh crore for better post-harvest infrastructure.

–IANS

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