Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, inaugurated and addressed the 21st session of the African-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) in Delhi, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing rural development across Africa and Asia. The event, attended by dignitaries, policymakers, and experts from various countries, focused on sustainable agricultural practices, technological innovations, and policy frameworks to uplift rural communities.
In his address, Vice President Dhankhar emphasized India's long-standing partnership with African and Asian nations in fostering economic growth through agricultural and rural development initiatives. He highlighted how technological advancements, digital transformation, and policy reforms could play a crucial role in enhancing food security, improving livelihoods, and reducing poverty in rural areas.
The Vice President reiterated India's commitment to sharing its expertise in modern farming techniques, water conservation, and renewable energy solutions to boost rural economies. He also stressed the importance of women’s empowerment and youth engagement in rural industries, advocating for inclusive development policies that ensure equitable growth.
The African-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO), established to promote rural development cooperation among member countries, has been instrumental in facilitating knowledge exchange and collaborative projects. The 21st session served as a platform for discussing key challenges, exploring innovative solutions, and strengthening international partnerships for sustainable rural development.
The conference saw active participation from ministers, diplomats, and rural development experts, who shared best practices and success stories from their respective countries. The discussions revolved around climate resilience, digital agriculture, access to finance for rural entrepreneurs, and strategies to bridge the urban-rural divide.
Concluding his speech, Vice President Dhankhar urged all participating nations to leverage collective expertise and resources to address common rural development challenges. He reaffirmed India’s unwavering support in fostering global cooperation for achieving inclusive and sustainable rural transformation.
