Hyderabad, June 16 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that agriculture serves as a source of livelihood for over 2.5 billion individuals worldwide. In a video message delivered during the three-day G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meet held in Hyderabad, Modi highlighted that agriculture accounts for nearly 30 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over 60 percent of jobs in the Global South.
He called upon the attendees to collaborate in taking collective action to achieve global food security. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to build sustainable and inclusive food systems with a focus on marginalized farmers. Strengthening global fertilizer supply chains and adopting agricultural practices that enhance soil health, crop yield, and overall productivity were also highlighted as important steps.
Modi acknowledged that agriculture lies at the core of human civilization and expressed that the responsibilities of Agriculture Ministers extend beyond managing a single sector of the economy. He recognized the numerous challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including disruptions caused by the pandemic and amplified by geopolitical tensions. Additionally, he noted that climate change has led to more frequent extreme weather events, which have a particularly significant impact on the Global South.
The Prime Minister shared examples of India’s efforts to promote natural and technology-enabled farming. He highlighted the growing adoption of natural farming practices across the country, where farmers refrain from using synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Instead, they focus on rejuvenating soil health, optimizing water usage, and promoting organic fertilizers and pest management solutions. Simultaneously, Indian farmers actively embrace technology to enhance productivity by leveraging solar power, utilizing Soil Health Cards for optimal crop selection, and employing drones for nutrient spraying and crop monitoring.
Modi expressed his belief in a “fusion approach” that combines the best of traditional and technological practices to address the multifaceted challenges in agriculture effectively.
He also drew attention to the International Year of Millets in 2023, underscoring the significance of these nutritious crops. Millets are not only healthy to consume but also offer economic benefits to farmers due to their efficient water usage, reduced fertilizer requirements, and inherent pest resistance. In line with this, India is developing an Institute of Millets Research as a Center of Excellence to share best practices, research, and technologies related to millets.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of regenerative agriculture and empowering farmers with innovation and digital technology. He stressed the need to make agricultural solutions affordable for small and marginal farmers in the Global South. Modi also highlighted the urgency of reducing agricultural and food waste while investing in wealth creation through waste management.
India’s G20 priorities in agriculture revolve around healing the planet, fostering harmonious relationships, and creating a promising future. Modi commended the ongoing work on the “Deccan High-level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition” and the “MAHARISHI” initiative for millets and other grains. He expressed support for these inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agriculture initiatives.
The G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meet brought together over 200 delegates from G20 member countries, invited nations, and international organizations. The event witnessed the participation of agriculture ministers from various countries and directors-general from international organizations. Prime Minister Modi concluded his message by extending his best wishes for successful deliberations.
