To Understand India, Understand Its Agriculture: German Ambassador Dr. Philipp Ackermann

Dr. Philipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India, accompanied by Kaspar Meyer, Spokesperson of German Embassy, visited Krishi Jagran Office in New Delhi on July 24, 2024. At KJ Chaupal, Dr. Philipp Ackermann highlighted that to truly understand India, one must understand its agriculture, which employs half of the population and carries deep emotional and cultural significance. He noted that while agriculture presents both opportunities and challenges, it is integral to India's identity and societal fabric.

Upon arrival, Dr. Ackermann and Kaspar Meyer were warmly welcomed by M C Dominic, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Krishi Jagran & Agriculture World and Shiny Dominic, Managing Director of Krishi Jagran. A video tracing Krishi Jagran's journey from its inception to the present was showcased.

In his address at KJ Chaupal, Dr. Ackermann remarked, “If you want to understand India, understand its agriculture. Fifty percent of the Indian population is engaged in the agriculture sector, showing the strong role agriculture plays and its sentimental value. It’s not just a business; it’s a part of the social fabric, with farmers deeply attached to their land.”

Dr. Ackermann contrasted the agricultural landscapes of India and Germany, noting that while only 2% of Germany's population is engaged in agriculture, the sector has a significant influence and leverages advanced technology for higher efficiency. He highlighted the differences in land inheritance laws between North and South Germany and discussed the rise of organic farming driven by health-conscious German consumers.

The Ambassador emphasized the potential for Indian agricultural products in Germany, citing a successful organic farming project in Andhra Pradesh and the growing popularity of Indian mangoes, ginger, and spices in the German market. He expressed his appreciation for Uttar Pradesh’s Dussehri and Chausa mangoes.

Dr. Ackermann also discussed ongoing efforts under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP) to promote natural and sustainable farming practices. He mentioned a German company- Verbio in Punjab working on processing agricultural stubble into energy, presenting a model for sustainable straw management that benefits farmers.

Dr. Philipp Ackermann appreciated Krishi Jagran for its dedication to the farming community, recognizing its efforts to highlight the positive and dynamic aspects of agriculture, and emphasizing the important role it plays in empowering the farming community.

The insightful event concluded with a Vote of Thanks and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.