Cooperation in Digital Agriculture, Seeds, Mechanization Discussed
Staff Reporter / New Delhi
India and Germany today discussed on a wide range of areas related to agriculture, including digital agriculture, the seeds sector, mechanization and technology, horticulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries. The collaboration between the two nations continues to strengthen, with both sides expressing their commitment to addressing global agricultural challenges through innovation and mutual support.
The 8th Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting between India and Germany on Agriculture was held at the National Agricultural Science Complex, PUSA, here. The meeting was co-chaired by Ms. Alka Upadhyay, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Ms. Silvia Bender, State Secretary of the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL).
In her welcome address, Ms. Upadhyay highlighted the longstanding and robust relationship between India and Germany, particularly through the Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) established in 2011. She underscored the significant role of agriculture in this partnership, pointing to India’s ongoing collaborations with Germany in areas such as agroecology, sustainable practices, and seed production. Ms. Upadhyay also emphasized India’s interest in exploring new opportunities to deepen agricultural cooperation, particularly in the realm of digital technologies.
Ms. Silvia Bender reciprocated the sentiment, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to further strengthening ties with India, especially in the agricultural and allied sectors. She acknowledged the shared challenges both countries face and reiterated Germany’s readiness to share its experience and knowledge to enhance agricultural practices.
Mr. Ajeet Kumar Sahu, in his address, highlighted India’s agricultural achievements and its pivotal role in global food security. He spoke about India’s government-led initiatives such as the Digital Agriculture Mission, Krishi Sakhi, and programs to empower farmers through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). He also noted the importance of initiatives like e-NAM, Natural and Organic Farming, and AgriSURE, which aim to boost rural development and agricultural advancement.
The discussions were further enriched by insights from Dr. Pramod Mehreda, who emphasized the importance of digital agriculture and shared best practices for pest and disease management using digital technologies.
The German delegation included representatives from BMEL, its subordinate authorities, and various institutions, while the Indian side was represented by Joint Secretaries from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), among others.
The meeting underscored the ongoing strong cooperation between India and Germany in agricultural development and innovation, setting the stage for further advancements in both nations’ agricultural sectors.