Cuiabá, Brazil: Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Ram Nath Thakur, alongside Ambassador of India to Brazil Suresh Reddy and Joint Secretary (NRM), Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, participated in the G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting held in Cuiabá, Brazil, from September 12-14, 2024.
In his address at the meeting, Ram Nath Thakur underscored India’s commitment to agricultural development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted that India’s agricultural strategy not only focuses on enhancing productivity but also aims to ensure economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The comprehensive vision for development, according to Shri Thakur, is centered around improving farmer prosperity and implementing the world’s largest food-based safety net programs to secure food and nutrition.
Thakur emphasized India’s dedication to building resilient agricultural systems for a sustainable and prosperous future. He also stressed the importance of Special and Differential Treatment for developing and least-developed countries. This approach is crucial for empowering small and marginal fishers in India and other nations, enabling their effective participation in global trade discussions.
The G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting focused on four key priority areas:
- Sustainability of Agriculture and Food Systems: Exploring diverse pathways for sustainable agricultural practices.
- Enhancing International Trade: Improving the contribution of international trade to food security and nutrition.
- Role of Family Farmers and Local Communities: Elevating the essential role of family farmers, smallholders, indigenous peoples, and local communities in fostering inclusive and resilient agriculture.
- Integration of Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture: Promoting the integration of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture into local and global value chains.
In addition to participating in the ministerial sessions, Ram Nath Thakur engaged in bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening agricultural relations between India and other countries. He reiterated India’s willingness to collaborate, learn, and contribute to global efforts to address the challenges facing food systems worldwide.
Ram Nath Thakur congratulated Brazil for its successful G20 Presidency and for advancing initiatives initiated during India’s G20 presidency. He also extended warm wishes to South Africa for its upcoming G20 Presidency.