G20 workshop addresses climate change impact India promotes climate-resilient agriculture
New Delhi, Sep 4 (FN Bureau) Shobha Karandlaje, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, on Monday emphasised on the global significance of climate change during the three-day G20 Technical Workshop on Climate-Resilient Agriculture. The event was organised by the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare here. In her address to the media, M. Karandlaje underscored that many countries, particularly those within the G20, are grappling with the tangible effects of climate change. She stressed the critical need for collective efforts to promote climate-resilient agriculture worldwide, reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to ensuring food security both domestically and on the global stage, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Karandlaje highlighted that the G20 event comprised 56 main sessions and an additional 100 side events held throughout India, fostering collaboration among G20 member countries. The main event is slated for September 8, 9, and 10 in New Delhi. The Union Minister emphasized the vital discussions taking place among scientists and researchers regarding climate-resilient agriculture and innovative strategies to adapt to the ever-evolving challenges posed by climate change. She expressed her appreciation for the enthusiasm exhibited by G20 delegates towards Indian culture, cuisine, and tourism during the event. Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) & DG, ICAR, emphasized the profound significance of India’s G20 presidency and the imperative of global cooperation in addressing climate change. He elaborated on India’s pioneering climate-resilient technologies and ongoing efforts to develop crop varieties that can withstand climatic challenges.
Dr Pathak also stressed the crucial role of millets as a climate-resilient and nutritious food source. India is actively promoting millet cultivation and has been developing new varieties to enhance productivity. The event saw participation from 31 national and international delegates, who were given the opportunity to visit the ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) and Shilparamam to gain insight into Indian culture and traditional products. Additionally, the delegates were scheduled to visit ICAR-CRIDA Hayathnagar Research Farm to learn about crop management practices. Dr V K Singh, Director, ICAR, CRIDA, DR s K Chaudhari, DDG (NRM), ICAR, Chairman, G20 Technical Workshop, Ms, Alka Nangia Arora, Additional Secretary & FA, DARE, and among others present on the occasion.