Historic Ties and Shared Agricultural Priorities
During the meeting, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan underlined that India and Fiji share deep historical and cultural bonds, strengthened by strong people-to-people ties and mutual respect. He noted that agriculture remains a vital pillar of both economies and plays a central role in ensuring food security, rural employment and inclusive growth.
The Minister emphasised that India is keen to work closely with Fiji to address common agricultural challenges, including climate resilience, productivity enhancement and sustainable farming practices. Fiji, in turn, acknowledged India’s experience in agricultural research, technology adoption and farmer-centric programmes.
MoU Extension and Joint Working Group Agreed
A key outcome of the discussions was the decision to extend the existing Memorandum of Understanding on agriculture cooperation for another five years. Both ministers agreed that the MoU has yielded positive results and requires further strengthening to meet evolving challenges.
To ensure structured and result-oriented collaboration, the two sides also agreed to establish a Joint Working Group. The JWG will serve as a dedicated institutional mechanism to monitor progress, identify new areas of cooperation and facilitate regular exchanges between experts and policymakers.
Focus on Capacity Building and Technology Sharing
The bilateral talks placed strong emphasis on capacity building through student exchanges, training programmes and skill development initiatives. India offered to share its expertise in modern farming techniques, digital agriculture tools and the use of small-scale farm machinery suited for island nations.
Both sides discussed cooperation in precision farming, soil health management and data-driven decision-making to improve productivity and sustainability. Knowledge exchange in these areas is expected to directly benefit small and marginal farmers in Fiji.
Research Collaboration and Food Security Initiatives
Strengthening agricultural research infrastructure emerged as another major priority. The two countries agreed to collaborate on research projects, genetic exchange initiatives and joint studies aimed at improving crop resilience and yields.
Special focus was also placed on reducing food loss and waste, a growing concern for food security globally. Both sides expressed interest in sharing best practices, post-harvest technologies and policy frameworks to address the issue effectively.
High-Level Participation from Both Sides
The Fijian delegation included Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and the Sugar Industry Mr Charan Jeath Singh, Fiji’s High Commissioner to India Mr Jagannath Sami, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sugar Dr Vinesh Kumar, and senior officials from the Fiji Sugar Corporation.
The Indian side was represented by Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary DARE Shri M L Jat, and other senior officials, reflecting the importance New Delhi attaches to the partnership.
Strengthening India–Pacific Engagement
The meeting aligns with India’s broader outreach to Pacific Island countries and reinforces its commitment to South–South cooperation. Enhanced agriculture ties with Fiji are expected to contribute to regional food security, sustainable livelihoods and long-term economic resilience.
