India and Australia Strengthen Ties to Advance Agri-Tech and Agricultural Trade

Australian High Commissioner Philip Green met with Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, at Krishi Bhawan yesterday on November 14, 2024 to strengthen bilateral relations in agriculture. The discussion focused on exploring collaborative opportunities in agriculture and allied sectors, paving the way for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.

Dr. Chaturvedi  highlighted the enduring partnership between India and Australia, highlighting shared goals in the agricultural domain. "India is committed to ensuring food security, enhancing farmers' incomes, and improving nutritional outcomes," he stated. Key initiatives outlined by Dr. Chaturvedi included crop diversification, boosting exports, achieving self-reliance in oilseeds and pulses, and empowering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

He further underscored the transformative role of technology, citing precision farming, the Digital Agriculture Mission, and mechanized small-scale farming as pivotal components of India’s agricultural modernization. Startups, he noted, are playing an increasingly crucial role in driving innovation and change within the sector.

High Commissioner Philip Green reiterated Australia's commitment to strengthening agricultural ties. He identified agri-tech and digital agriculture as potential areas for mutual collaboration, noting the importance of enhancing trade ties to achieve shared objectives. "The opportunities for agricultural cooperation between our nations are immense, and continued engagement will help unlock new trade and innovation avenues," Green remarked.

Both sides agreed on advancing cooperation in areas such as horticulture, agri-tech, digital farming, and agricultural machinery. The dialogue also saw participation from senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, representatives of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and the Ministry of External Affairs, whose insights enriched the discussions.

This collaboration promises to deliver not only economic growth but also sustainable practices that benefit farmers and consumers alike.