Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, represented India at the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting held in Brazil earlier today. The high-level gathering brought together agriculture leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss food security, climate-resilient agriculture, and international cooperation in the agri-food sector.
In his address, Minister Chouhan highlighted the transformative steps India has taken in recent years to modernize its agriculture sector. He spoke on key reforms aimed at improving farmer income, boosting crop productivity, and leveraging digital innovation in agriculture.
“India has adopted a comprehensive approach to strengthen food systems by integrating technology, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing farmer access to markets,” Chouhan said. “Our aim is to ensure food security not only for our own population but also contribute meaningfully to global food supply chains.”
He emphasized India’s successful implementation of initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), Soil Health Card Scheme, and the promotion of natural and organic farming methods. The Minister also highlighted the widespread use of digital platforms like eNAM (National Agriculture Market) to improve transparency and pricing efficiency in agri-markets.
Chouhan urged fellow BRICS members to foster greater cooperation in agricultural research, climate-resilient farming practices, and sustainable resource management. “Our countries face common challenges such as climate change, fluctuating commodity prices, and increasing demand for food. Collaboration in science, technology, and policy frameworks is essential to build resilient agri-food systems,” he added.
India’s focus on farmer welfare and sustainable growth resonated with the central theme of the meeting, which stressed collective action and innovation to tackle global food security concerns. The minister also pointed out India's growing emphasis on value-added agri-products and rural entrepreneurship through agri-startups.
The 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting concluded with a joint declaration, reaffirming the commitment of all five nations to enhance cooperation in agriculture and rural development. Key resolutions included boosting data sharing on food security, promoting inclusive policies for small and marginal farmers, and enhancing trade in agricultural goods among BRICS nations.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s participation and India’s proactive stance reflected the country's growing leadership in global agricultural policy discussions. His address underlined the importance of shared learning, innovation, and solidarity in overcoming the evolving challenges faced by the global agriculture sector.
