G20 Technical Workshop on Climate-Resilient Agriculture concludes successfully in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers, successfully concluded the three-day G20 Technical Workshop on Climate-Resilient Agriculture at a private hotel near Hyderabad Airport on Wednesday.

Approximately 100 delegates, including representatives from G20 member states, invited nations, and international organizations, participated in the event. Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Jal Shakthi, Chemicals and Fertilizers, and Earth Sciences attended and shared their perspectives on agricultural research related to Climate Change within the global context, official sources said.

The workshop commenced on September 4 with an Inaugural Session graced by Shobha Karandlaje, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary DARE and DG ICAR, and Dr SK Chaudhari, DDG (NRM) ICAR & Chair of the G20 Technical Workshop, India.

The theme of the G20 Indian Presidency, “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” emphasizes unity and harmony in working together to ensure a promising future for the world.

Throughout the three-day event, discussions revolved around Climate-Resilient Agriculture, encompassing needs and innovations, the scaling-up of case studies and experiences, policy formulation, financial considerations, and institutional requirements.

Distinguished delegates from various countries and international organizations examined technological, institutional, and policy-related necessities and imperatives. They also explored scientific and innovative solutions needed to address emerging challenges and reduce uncertainties in agricultural food systems.

On the second day of the G20 Workshop on Climate-Resilient Agriculture, held on September 5, 2023, technical presentations covered key areas such as upscaling Climate-Resilient Agriculture through case studies and experiences, policy considerations, financial aspects, and institutional requirements. Eminent speakers delivered these presentations.

The concluding session, chaired by Dr. S.K Chaudhari, DDG (NRM), ICAR, emphasized that climate resilience could be achieved through the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties, effective natural resource management, and capacity building for farmers and stakeholders. The potential for implementing climate-resilient technologies in G20 nations was also discussed, with delegates from G20 countries sharing their views and insights on climate-resilient practices.

As part of their visit to Hyderabad, the delegates had the opportunity to explore the work conducted at ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR). Given the significance of millets in climate-resilient agriculture, the delegates learned about the research and initiatives at IIMR. They also visited Shilparamam, Hyderabad, to experience India’s rich traditions and culture through various art forms, handlooms, and handicrafts. Folk dancers gave the delegates a warm welcome.

Additionally, a Bharatanatyam ballet on Krishna Leelalu, presented by Manjula Ramaswamy and her team, captivated the audience. M. Surender, Managing Director of Telangana State Co-operative Oilseeds Growers Federation Limited, was in attendance.

On Wednesday, the delegates visited ICAR-CRIDA – Research Farm in Hayathnagar. They explored various areas within CRIDA, including the Crop Technology Park, Fodder Technology Park, Farm machinery field demonstration, Seed hub-Processing Plant, National Innovation on Climate-Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) complex (FATE, CTGC facilities), Agroforestry block, Natural Farming block, Fodder seed production block, and Solar Powered Micro-irrigation systems block. The delegates engaged with scientific personnel, gaining insights into climate change-related research activities at CRIDA and an overview of crop management practices, the sources added.