India has called for global solidarity to bolster small and marginal farmers, emphasizing their central role in achieving food security and combating climate change. At the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting in Brazil, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted that these farmers face mounting challenges from climate volatility, price fluctuations, and resource scarcity.
Minister Chouhan advocated for policy frameworks that prioritize smallholders, describing agriculture as a source of “livelihood, food, and dignity” for millions. He proposed cluster-based farming, farmer producer organizations, cooperative models, and natural farming as effective strategies to empower these farmers and enhance their market access.
The BRICS nations launched the “BRICS Land Restoration Partnership” to address land degradation, desertification, and soil fertility loss. In their Joint Declaration, they committed to making the global agri-food system fair, inclusive, innovative, and sustainable, with an emphasis on food security, climate adaptation, and the empowerment of women and youth.
India also shared its technological initiatives, including the Digital Agriculture Mission, AgriStack, drone technology, and Climate-Resilient Villages, demonstrating how these innovations have improved service delivery and farmer incomes. Minister Chouhan also invited BRICS nations to participate in World Food India 2025 as a platform for innovation and global collaboration.