Strengthening Bilateral Agricultural Ties
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (India), and Mr. D. P. Wickramasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation (Sri Lanka). Both sides explored avenues for cooperation in farm mechanization, seed development, organic and natural farming, soil health management, and agri-entrepreneurship.
Focus on Research, Startups, and Capacity Building
India and Sri Lanka emphasized the need to promote joint research, innovation, and training initiatives in the agricultural sector. The discussion also covered crop insurance, digital agriculture platforms, and support for agri-startups to encourage youth participation in the farm economy.
The Sri Lankan delegation visited the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa, to gain insights into India’s agricultural innovation ecosystem. The visit highlighted India’s advancements in biotechnology, precision farming, and sustainable cultivation models.
Commitment to Regional Food and Nutritional Security
Both nations reaffirmed their shared vision for achieving regional food and nutritional security through collaboration in technology, policy frameworks, and trade facilitation. Strengthening this partnership is expected to benefit small and marginal farmers by enhancing market access and productivity.
Delegations and Institutional Participation
The Sri Lankan side included senior officials such as Mrs. G. G. V. Shyamali (Additional Director General of Agriculture), Mr. B. S. S. Perera (Director, Livestock Development), and Mr. Geshan (Counsellor, High Commission of Sri Lanka). India was represented by Joint Secretaries from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, officials from DARE, ICAR, and the Ministry of External Affairs.
This meeting represents a key milestone in advancing India’s agricultural diplomacy with neighboring countries and aligns with the government’s goal of promoting regional cooperation for sustainable development.
