New Delhi
India and Australia are exploring new opportunities to enhance cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors, focusing on agri-tech innovations. Australian High Commissioner Philip Green met with Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of India’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, at Krishi Bhawan to discuss the future of bilateral ties, official statement issued on Friday.
Chaturvedi outlined India’s agricultural priorities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to food security, improving farmers’ incomes, and ensuring nutritional security. He highlighted initiatives like crop diversification, boosting exports, achieving self-sufficiency in oilseeds and pulses, and supporting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) as part of the country’s agricultural strategy. He also stressed the role of technological advancements such as precision agriculture, digital agriculture, and mechanization, noting the growing influence of startups in driving sectoral innovation.
Green recognized the importance of agriculture in Australia’s strategic focus and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in the agri-tech sector. He emphasized strengthening trade ties and enhancing collaboration on digital agriculture, horticulture, and agricultural machinery.
Both countries agreed to deepen cooperation in various areas, including agri-tech and skills training. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier between India and Australia aims to enhance skills training in agriculture, supporting workforce development and creating quality standards for training, certification, and stakeholder engagement.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and the Ministry of External Affairs were present during the discussions.
