During the period of 15-17 June 2023, the G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting successfully concluded with the adoption of a significant document titled "Outcome Document and Chair's Summary". This marked a historic moment as the ministers engaged in extensive discussions on various issues related to the agriculture sector, with a particular focus on the leadership of developing countries within the G-20.
The Ministerial meeting officially commenced on 16 June 2023, commencing with a plenary session that featured an opening address by Manoj Ahuja, the Union Agriculture Secretary. The session also included a video message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who warmly welcomed the esteemed attendees and distinguished delegates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the vital role of the agriculture sector in human civilization and urged the G-20 Agriculture Ministers to collaborate in addressing the challenges faced by this sector, thereby ensuring a prosperous future for humanity.
G20 Agriculture Minister’s Meeting: Key Areas Discussed
During the G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi placed significant emphasis on four key areas for discussion. These areas were identified as crucial for the advancement of the agriculture sector and the well-being of the global population.
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Firstly, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of promoting agricultural diversity and enhancing social security systems to ensure improved food security and nutrition for all. This approach aimed to address the challenges of hunger and malnutrition through inclusive strategies.
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Secondly, the Prime Minister highlighted the need to finance climate-friendly technologies and embrace a climate-smart approach. This approach advocated for the adoption of agricultural system models that promote sustainable production while mitigating the impact of climate change.
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Thirdly, the Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of strengthening infrastructure for small and marginal farmers, women, and youth. By capitalizing on the expanding economic opportunities, the goal was to foster inclusive agriculture value chains and food systems. This approach aimed to enhance the resilience and efficiency of these chains, ensuring equitable benefits for all stakeholders.
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Lastly, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of leveraging digital technologies to transform the agricultural sector. The focus was on improving digitization processes and standardizing agricultural data platforms, which would contribute to the development of digital public goods. These efforts aimed to streamline operations and facilitate data-driven decision-making for the advancement of agriculture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of 2023 being designated as the International Year of Millets. Millets, often referred to as "Shree Anna" or superfoods, not only contribute to good health but also play a crucial role in promoting sustainable livelihoods for farmers by diversifying their income and strengthening their resilience to climate change. India reaffirmed its commitment to sharing best practices, research, and technologies related to ancient grains and cereals.
Acknowledging the disruptions in global supply chains caused by the ongoing pandemic, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and climate change, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged G20 member nations to explore innovative agricultural practices. These practices should aim to enhance soil health, crop productivity, and yield while empowering farmers through the adoption of digital technologies and innovative solutions.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar extended a warm welcome to the attending ministers and Heads of Delegations (HoDs) during the plenary session. Dr Ramesh Chand, a member of NITI Aayog, delivered a presentation on "Global Food Security and Nutrition," shedding light on the challenges faced in the present day and proposing potential solutions. The session was attended by Union Ministers of State for Agriculture Kailash Choudhary and Shobha Karandlaje, as well as Dr Himanshu Pathak, the Director General of ICAR and Secretary of DARE, J.N. Swain, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, along with other senior officials and esteemed representatives from G-20 countries and invited organizations.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India hosted the virtual Voice of Global South Summit 2023 from 12th to 13th January 2023. The summit, themed "Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose," aimed to engage developing countries not represented in the G20 and understand their developmental priorities. India sought to ensure better engagement between developing nations and the G20 process, with the ultimate goal of promoting human-centric development.
The agriculture minister commended the G20 Members for their significant contributions to the successful and historic proceedings of the Agriculture Working Group. This resulted in two key outcomes during the Ministerial meeting: the Deccan High-Level Principles and the International Millets and Other Ancient Grains Research Initiative, both outlined in the "Outcome Document and Chair's Summary." The efforts made by India in leading and advancing the agricultural agenda were highly appreciated by all G20 Members, expressing deep gratitude.
Prior to these achievements, three important meetings took place in Indore, Chandigarh, and Varanasi. During the G20 MACS meeting in Varanasi, the launch of the "International Millets and Other Ancient Grains Research Initiative (MAHARISHI)" marked a significant milestone.
India's priorities within the G20 regarding agriculture revolve around healing our planet, fostering harmony within the global community, and providing hope for a brighter future.
