The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) today at the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex in New Delhi. This event, held in India for the first time in 65 years, gathered around 1,000 delegates from approximately 75 countries. The theme of this year’s conference is “Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems,” addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource degradation, rising production costs, and conflicts.
In his address, the Prime Minister warmly welcomed the international delegates on behalf of India’s 120 million farmers, over 30 million women farmers, 30 million fishermen, and 80 million livestock farmers. He highlighted India’s ancient agricultural traditions, which prioritize science and logic, and noted the country’s robust agricultural education and research systems.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s transition from a nation once concerned with food security to a food surplus country and a significant contributor to global food and nutrition security. He reiterated India’s commitment to global welfare, encapsulated in the philosophy of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” and stressed the importance of sustainable agriculture and food systems.
Highlighting the role of small farmers in India’s food security, he outlined various government initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and climate-resilient farming. He discussed advancements such as natural farming, the introduction of climate-resilient crop varieties, and the integration of modern technology into agriculture.
The conference aims to foster global collaboration in addressing agricultural challenges and showcases India’s proactive approach to sustainable agriculture. It provides a platform for young researchers and professionals to share their work and influence policymaking on both national and international levels.
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Member of NITI Aayog, Prof Ramesh Chand, Conference President, Prof Matin Qaim, and Secretary of DARE and DG, ICAR, Dr Himanshu Pathak, were also present at the event. The conference runs from August 2 to 7, 2024.
