Inaugurates 32nd ICAE in Delhi, first in 65 years
India is a food surplus country today
Emphasis on Climate-Resilient crops & digital agri
Strengthening global partnerships & research collaborations
Jammu, Aug 03: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) today at the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex.
The conference, held in India for the first time in 65 years since it was last hosted in 1959, is themed “Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems.”
Addressing approximately 1,000 delegates from 75 countries, PM Modi expressed pleasure at hosting the event. He welcomed attendees on behalf of India’s 120 million farmers, including 30 million women farmers, 30 million fishermen, and 80 million livestock keepers. “You are in the land which is home to more than 500 million livestock. I welcome you to the agricultural and animal-loving country of India,” he said.
Highlighting India’s progress, Modi reflected on the country’s transition from food insecurity to becoming a global leader in food and nutrition security. He noted India’s achievements as the largest producer of milk, pulses, and spices, and the second largest producer of food grains, fruits, vegetables, cotton, sugar, tea, and farmed fish. He recalled the time when India’s food security was a global concern and now stands as a solution provider for global food and nutrition challenges.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of integrating traditional agricultural practices with modern scientific advancements. He praised India’s robust agricultural research and education infrastructure, which includes over 100 research institutes, more than 500 agricultural colleges, and over 700 Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Modi underscored the need for a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture, aligning with the global motto “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” He discussed India’s approach to sustainable farming, including advancements in climate-resilient crops and natural farming practices. He also highlighted recent government initiatives such as Soil Health Cards, digital agriculture markets, and micro-irrigation projects.
The Prime Minister pointed out the challenges of water scarcity and climate change, presenting millets as a solution due to their low water requirements and high production yields. He also mentioned the significant digitization efforts in agriculture, including the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, digital crop surveys, and the promotion of drone technology in farming.
The conference will run until August 7, 2024, focusing on global agricultural challenges and fostering international research collaborations. The ICAE 2024 platform aims to strengthen partnerships between research institutes and universities, influence policy making, and showcase India’s agricultural progress.
OrganiSed by the International Association of Agricultural Economists, ICAE 2024 addresses the pressing need for sustainable agriculture amidst global challenges such as climate change and resource degradation. The conference highlights India’s proactive approach and advancements in agricultural research and policy.
