India and South Africa on Tuesday (August 26, 2025) strengthened their agricultural partnership during the fifth meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Agriculture, held virtually. The meeting was co-chaired by Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary (IC), Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Thapsana Molepo, Acting Director, International Trade Promotion, South Africa.
Ajeet Kumar Sahu highlighted India’s achievements in agriculture, outlining government initiatives aimed at modernizing the sector. He spoke about the growing use of digital technologies, promotion of climate-resilient practices, risk mitigation measures, and government-backed credit schemes designed to support farmers. These efforts, he said, underscore India’s commitment to enhancing productivity and sustainability in agriculture.
Thapsana Molepo shared South Africa’s priorities, reaffirming the country’s interest in strengthening ties with India. She emphasized expanding collaboration in key areas such as extension services, capacity building, and the seed sector.
Both sides explored avenues for cooperation between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and South Africa’s Agricultural Research Council (ARC), focusing on knowledge exchange, joint research initiatives, skill development, and improved market access.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, ICAR, Department of Fisheries, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Ministry of External Affairs.
