Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Agriculture Ministers to engage in collaborative efforts to achieve global food security.
Delivering a video message during the three-day G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meet, which commenced on Thursday, Modi highlighted the significance of agriculture in the Global South, constituting nearly 30 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generating over 60 percent of employment.
Emphasizing the livelihood of 2.5 billion people dependent on agriculture worldwide, Modi stressed the importance of developing sustainable and inclusive food systems.
He called for a focus on marginal farmers and strengthening global fertilizer supply chains while adopting agricultural practices that enhance soil health, crop quality, and yield.
Addressing the Agriculture Ministers, the Prime Minister underscored their responsibility for shaping the future of humanity, stating that their role extends beyond managing a single sector of the economy.
He acknowledged that supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the pandemic and geo-political tensions disproportionately impact the Global South, while the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change poses further challenges.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister celebrated the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets, acknowledging the value of traditionally grown food crops that have been overshadowed by market influences and marketing trends.
India’s agricultural priorities within the G20 framework revolve around healing the planet, fostering harmony among all inhabitants, and offering hope for a brighter future.
Modi commended the efforts underway during the event, specifically highlighting two concrete outcomes: the “Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition” and the “MAHARISHI” initiative for promoting millets and other grains. Supporting these initiatives signifies backing for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agriculture.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister expressed his best wishes for the deliberations and success of the attendees. The three-day event was attended by over 200 delegates from G20 member countries, invited nations, and international organizations, including Agriculture Ministers and Director Generals.