Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at the G20 Agriculture Ministers Meeting in Hyderabad. He said that agriculture is important for humanity and not just an economy sector. The sector is facing challenges such as supply chain disruptions due to the pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and climate change. Modi shared India’s approach to agriculture, which involves natural farming and technology-enabled farming. Indian farmers are using natural methods to protect soil health and produce organic fertilizers, while also using technology to boost productivity.
He also talked about millets, which are superfoods that require less water and fertilizer, and are more pest-resistant. India is celebrating 2023 as the International Year of Millets and is developing an Institute of Millets Research. Modi urged G20 delegates to find ways to achieve global food security by building sustainable food systems for marginal farmers, strengthening fertilizer supply chains, reducing food waste, and empowering farmers with innovation and digital technology.
India’s G20 priorities in agriculture focus on creating harmony within our ‘One Family’ and giving hope for a bright ‘One Future’. Two initiatives were discussed during the meeting, including the ‘Deccan High-level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition’ and the ‘MAHARISHI’ initiative for millet and other grains. Modi expressed his support for these initiatives and wished the deliberations success.
