G20 Technical Workshop on Climate Resilient Agriculture in Hyderabad.

Hyderabad: The Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is hosting the G20 Technical Workshop on “Climate Resilient Agriculture” in Hyderabad from September 4 to 6, 2023. The workshop aims to convene global experts to discuss and highlight the challenges posed by Climate Change, with a strong focus on fostering cooperation and information exchange to enhance countries’ abilities in tackling these challenges.

The opening day of the three-day event featured the Inaugural Session, graced by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ms. Shobha Karandlaje. On the first day, the discussions revolved around “Climate Resilient Agriculture Research Needs and Innovations,” where eminent speakers shared their experiences in achieving agricultural resilience in their respective countries. They also identified scientific and innovative solutions needed to address emerging challenges and reduce uncertainties in food systems related to agriculture. The event drew dignitaries, including foreign delegates from G20 member states, guest-invited nations, and representatives from international organizations (IOs). Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and other ministries participated in technical sessions, addressing various agriculture research issues, primarily related to Climate Change and sustainable agricultural development on a global scale.

Ms. Shobha Karandlaje emphasized the vulnerability of agriculture to climate change, particularly in G20 nations, and highlighted that the impacts of climate change are already affecting agriculture. She expressed hope that the workshop’s recommendations would guide the path toward achieving climate-resilient agriculture. Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary DARE, and DG ICAR, underscored India’s vulnerability to climate change and increased climatic extremes, emphasizing the importance of ICAR’s efforts in meeting these challenges. Ms. Alka Nangia Arora, Additional Secretary & FA, DARE, discussed the manifestation of climatic risks, such as droughts, floods, and variable rainfall patterns, as a significant challenge for researchers and policymakers.

Dr. S.K. Chaudhari, DDG(NRM), ICAR, and Chairman of the Technical Workshop for Climate-Resilient Agriculture, stressed that G20 nations have the potential to lead in developing climate-resilient agricultural practices to enhance food security. He highlighted the demonstration of location-specific Climate Resilient Technologies (CRTs) in India to cope with climate variability in vulnerable districts and their role in raising awareness and capacity-building among farmers and stakeholders. He expressed confidence that the workshop’s deliberations would provide a comprehensive roadmap for addressing the impacts of climate change on the agriculture sector.

Dr. V.K. Singh, Director, ICAR-CRIDA, thanked the dignitaries and delegates from various nations for their participation in the Technical Workshop. The overarching theme of the G20 Indian Presidency, “One Earth, One Family, and One Future,” underscores the spirit of unity and harmony to ensure a promising future for the world. The upcoming technical sessions of the three-day event will focus on topics such as Upscaling Climate Resilient Agriculture Case Studies and Experiences, Policy, Finance, and Institutional Needs for Climate Resilient Agriculture. Additionally, delegates will visit ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) Hyderabad on September 5, 2023, to learn about advancements in millet research as part of the International Year of Millets 2023. India aims to strengthen its scientific research and development initiatives in millet cultivation and extend cooperation to other countries in this regard.

Furthermore, delegates will have the opportunity to experience Indian folk-dance performances and explore traditional products at Shilparamam, Hyderabad, on September 5, 2023. On September 6, 2023, they will visit the ICAR-CRIDA Hayathnagar Research Farm to gain insights into field farming and crop management. The Department, in coordination with district administration, has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety and security of the delegates. Delegates will depart for their respective countries on September 6th and 7th, 2023.