A recent virtual meeting of G20’s Agriculture Ministers shone a spotlight on India, who led discussions on sustainable food practices and production. This exchange was one of many ministerial conversations leading up to the main G20 Leaders Summit 2021, set to be held in Italy this October.
About the G20
The Group of 20 (G20) is an informal assembly of 19 countries and the European Union (EU), accompanied by representatives from both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Without a permanent secretariat or headquarters, it convenes leaders from an assorted mix of the world’s most impactful advanced and emerging economies. The membership constitutes approximately two-thirds of the global population, 85% of the worldwide gross domestic product, 80% of international investment, and over 75% of universal trade.
Acknowledgements and Resolutions
Participants inked their names on a document titled the ‘Florence Sustainability Charter,’ an agreement designed to bolster cooperation between G20 members and developing nations in food and agriculture matters. The charter will facilitate knowledge sharing and foster internal production capacities in alignment with local needs, aiding agricultural and rural community resilience and recovery.
India Advocates for Traditional Food
India emphasized the significance of incorporating traditional food items in the daily diet of people. These include nutritious cereals like millet, fruits and vegetables, fish, dairy products, and organics.
Increased Production of Biofortified Food
India also proposed a heightened focus on biofortified varieties of crops, considering them crucial sources of a staple diet rich in micronutrients. The country has thus far cultivated about 17 such crop varieties.
Enhancement of Water Resources
India has implemented measures to optimize the use of water resources, construct irrigation infrastructure, protect soil fertility through balanced fertilizer use, and implement connectivity from farms to markets.
Impact of Covid-19 on Indian Agriculture
Immediately following India’s independence, the agriculture sector thrived and continued to flourish even amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
India’s Pledge at the G20 Summit
India vowed to persevere in achieving poverty reduction and the ‘Zero Hunger Goal’ as integral parts of the sustainable development objectives.
Indian Initiatives
India has been successfully executing several schemes to enhance agricultural productivity and safeguard farmer interests. The government is also running the world’s largest food-based safety net program, which includes the Public Distribution System and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, to combat malnutrition. Additionally, it provides annual income support of Rs 6,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) for farmers.
The G20 forum serves as an essential platform for exchange and cooperation, providing an avenue to address significant economic and development challenges faced by its members and the international community. It empowers countries like India to push for sustainable practices in agriculture and food production.
