India in Collaboration with Food and Agriculture Organization Inaugurated the First Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights in New Delhi
Explore the significance of India's collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in inaugurating the first global symposium on farmers' rights in New Delhi. Learn about the key players and the importance of this event in promoting agricultural diversity and sustainability.
Introduction
In a historic moment on September 12, 2023, the President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, inaugurated the first Global Seminar on Farmers' Rights in New Delhi. This symposium, a testament to India's commitment to agriculture, brought together key stakeholders to discuss and promote the rights of farmers. Organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with various institutions, including the Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources and the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, this event marks a significant milestone in the global agricultural landscape.
 |
| India in collaboration with Food and Agriculture Organization inaugurated the first global symposium on farmers' rights in New Delhi |
India's Stance on Farmers' Rights
President Draupadi Murmu, in her inaugural address, emphasized the critical role played by the world's farming community as the custodians of crop diversity. This underscores India's dedication to supporting and safeguarding the rights of its farmers. The symposium provided a platform to discuss the various challenges faced by farmers and to formulate strategies for their empowerment.
Key Players in the Symposium
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
The FAO, established in 1945 under the United Nations Organization, is a specialized agency dedicated to addressing global food security challenges. It is headquartered in Rome, Italy, and plays a pivotal role in combating hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture worldwide. Every year, World Food Day is celebrated on October 16th to commemorate the FAO's founding.
Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources
This secretariat works in harmony with the FAO and focuses on conserving plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It plays a vital role in ensuring that agricultural biodiversity is protected and utilized sustainably, which is crucial for global food security.
Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
At the national level, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in India is responsible for formulating and implementing policies and programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of farmers. It collaborates with international organizations and institutions to share knowledge and promote best practices in agriculture.
Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFR)
The PPVFR Authority is tasked with protecting and regulating the rights of farmers and plant breeders. It ensures that farmers have access to quality seeds and plant varieties while safeguarding their rights to save, use, share, and sell farm-saved seeds.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
ICAR is at the forefront of agricultural research and development in India. It conducts scientific research, promotes sustainable farming practices, and works towards enhancing the productivity and profitability of agriculture.
ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)
As a premier agricultural research institute in India, IARI is committed to improving crop yields, developing new technologies, and providing training to agricultural professionals.
ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR)
NBPGR is entrusted with the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It plays a pivotal role in preserving crop diversity and promoting food security.
The Significance of the Symposium
The inaugural Global Seminar on Farmers' Rights holds immense significance in the realm of agriculture and food security. It serves as a platform for stakeholders to:
- Discuss and address the challenges faced by farmers in various parts of the world.
- Promote the rights of farmers, including their access to quality seeds and genetic resources.
- Encourage sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize biodiversity and crop diversity.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration among international agricultural organizations and institutions.
FAQs
1. What is the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)?
- The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established in 1945, dedicated to addressing global food security challenges and promoting sustainable agriculture.
2. Why is World Food Day celebrated on October 16th every year?
- World Food Day commemorates the anniversary of the FAO's establishment and serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat hunger and promote food security.
3. What is the role of the Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources?
- The Secretariat collaborates with the FAO to conserve plant genetic resources for food and agriculture, ensuring agricultural biodiversity is protected and utilized sustainably.
4. How does the Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFR) protect farmers' rights?
- PPVFR Authority safeguards farmers' rights by regulating access to quality seeds and protecting their rights to save, use, share, and sell farm-saved seeds.
5. What is the focus of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)?
- ICAR focuses on agricultural research and development, promoting sustainable farming practices, and enhancing crop productivity and profitability.
6. Why is crop diversity essential for global food security?
- Crop diversity ensures resilience in the face of environmental challenges, pests, and diseases, contributing to food security by providing a variety of food sources.
Conclusion
The collaboration between India and the Food and Agriculture Organization in inaugurating the first global symposium on farmers' rights in New Delhi marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of global food security and sustainable agriculture. This symposium serves as a beacon of hope for farmers worldwide and reaffirms the importance of their rights and the preservation of agricultural diversity. As we move forward, it is essential to continue supporting initiatives that empower farmers and secure the future of our food supply.
**============================================**
