India and Saskatchewan Premier Hold Talks to Boost Agricultural Collaboration

New Delhi: Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, and Premier of Saskatchewan Province of Canada, H.E. Mr. Scott Moe, engaged in discussions today at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, aiming to enhance the ongoing trade relationship between Saskatchewan and India. Saskatchewan has established itself as a consistent and reliable supplier of pulses, potash, agricultural technologies, and research partnerships.

During the meeting, MoS Sushri Shobha Karandlaje underscored the significance of the trade relationship, emphasizing its pivotal role in India’s energy and food security. Saskatchewan is a key supplier of critical commodities such as uranium, potash, lentils, peas, chickpeas, and semi-chemical wood pulp products. It stands out as one of the largest sources of pulses imported by India. MoS Shobha Karandlaje proposed exploring cooperation in biotechnology, agri-tech, and wastewater treatment. She also suggested strengthening knowledge exchange and technology transfer between India and Saskatchewan in sustainable agriculture through regular Technical Group meetings.

H.E. Mr. Scott Moe acknowledged the growing strength in India-Saskatchewan relations, emphasizing Saskatchewan’s role in helping partner countries achieve energy and food security. He highlighted the importance of advancing the agri-food production system, promoting sustainable agri-food products, sharing innovation, and developing natural resources to ensure global food security. Premier Moe emphasized the role of the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) in comparative analysis and benchmark studies on sustainable agriculture. He expressed his willingness to share technologies and best sustainable production practices with India. H.E. Mr. Scott Moe agreed to discuss and explore cooperation areas, knowledge exchange, and technology transfer between India and Saskatchewan through Technical Group meetings.

The discussions between MoS Sushri Shobha Karandlaje and Premier Scott Moe reflect the mutual commitment to strengthening agricultural collaboration and leveraging each other’s expertise for sustainable and secure food production. The exploration of new avenues for partnership in biotechnology, agri-tech, and wastewater treatment underscores the shared goal of fostering innovation and sustainability in the agriculture sector. The commitment to regular Technical Group meetings signifies a structured approach to facilitate ongoing collaboration and ensure the success of joint initiatives.