BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Conference Begins in Indore, India Calls for Stronger Cooperation on Food Security

Ziraat Times Team Report 

Indore, June 12: The two-day BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Conference began in Indore on Friday, with Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urging member countries to deepen cooperation for strengthening food security, empowering small farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Addressing the inaugural session, Chouhan said India was committed to advancing global agricultural partnerships under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guided by the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). Union Minister of State for Agriculture Ramnath Thakur was also present.

Welcoming delegates from BRICS countries, Chouhan said India’s approach to international engagement is based on cooperation and peace, adding that stronger global partnerships are essential to address challenges facing agriculture worldwide, including climate change, resource pressures, rising input costs and market uncertainties.

The minister stressed that strengthening small and marginal farmers is critical to ensuring global food security. He said economically empowered and technologically capable farmers would make agricultural systems more resilient and sustainable.

Highlighting India’s agricultural performance, Chouhan said the sector has recorded an average annual growth rate of nearly 4.5 per cent over the past decade. He noted that the country’s foodgrain production has reached nearly 376 million tonnes, while wheat production has touched about 118 million tonnes. Horticulture output has crossed 378 million tonnes and fish production has exceeded 19 million tonnes.

He said these achievements have been driven by farmers’ efforts and supported by government initiatives aimed at improving seeds, irrigation, agricultural technology, digital services and direct farmer assistance.

According to the minister, agriculture and allied sectors employ around 43 per cent of India’s workforce and remain a key pillar of the national economy. He noted that nearly 87 per cent of Indian farmers are small and marginal cultivators, making their empowerment central to inclusive rural development.

Chouhan highlighted schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, Kisan Credit Card programme and crop insurance initiatives, saying they provide financial support and security to farmers.

On sustainable agriculture, the minister emphasised natural farming, balanced use of fertilisers and soil health conservation. Referring to the ongoing “Khet Bachao Abhiyan”, he said the campaign is promoting scientific advisory services and encouraging farmers to adopt natural farming practices.

He also underscored the role of women and youth in transforming agriculture. Women-led Self-Help Groups and initiatives such as “Drone Didi”, he said, are expanding access to modern technologies and strengthening rural livelihoods. Increasing participation of young people through innovation, agri-startups and digital technologies is also helping create a more modern and efficient agricultural sector.

Calling for greater collaboration among BRICS nations, Chouhan urged member countries to work together on empowering small farmers, ensuring food security and advancing sustainable agricultural development. He expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen partnerships through knowledge-sharing, technological cooperation and policy dialogue, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient global agricultural system.