INDIA AFRICA PARTNERSHIP IN FOOD SECURITY

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  Context: India recently hosted the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists in Delhi from August 2-7.

Details

• The 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE), hosted by India from August 2-7, 2024, in Delhi, marks a significant event in the global agricultural sector.
• The conference provides a unique opportunity to deepen the partnership between India and Africa, particularly in the area of food security. Both regions face critical challenges in ensuring quality nutrition, especially for children under five years old.

International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) ●The International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE), organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE), brings together experts, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss key issues in agricultural economics. ●The aim is to exchange knowledge and ideas on global challenges related to agriculture, food security, rural development, and sustainability. Attendees include academics, researchers, government officials, industry professionals, and international organization representatives, promoting networking and collaboration. ●The ICAE, held every three years in different global locations, plays a crucial role in shaping agricultural policies and practices worldwide by providing evidence-based insights and recommendations. ●The conference in India from August 2 to 7, 2024, focused on sustainable agriculture under the theme "Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems. ●The last time India hosted the conference was in Mysore in 1958, with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru as the chief guest.

Key Findings from the ICAE Session

A special session at ICAE compared the agricultural experiences of 20 major Indian states with those of 15 African countries from 2004-05 to 2019-20. This comparative analysis reveals critical insights:

• Debt and Agricultural Spending: High debt service ratios in both regions lead to reduced agricultural spending compared to social protection, affecting overall agricultural development.
• Underfunding of Agriculture: African countries generally underfund agriculture compared to Indian states. This underfunding hampers productivity and efforts to combat child malnutrition.
• Investment in R&D: Both regions underinvest in agricultural research and development (R&D) and extension services. Increasing public spending in these areas is crucial for enhancing productivity and improving child nutrition outcomes.
• Reforming Subsidies: The study highlights the need to reform subsidies and redirect resources towards infrastructure and R&D to boost agricultural growth and reduce child malnutrition. Effective agricultural investment can help alleviate poverty and reduce the need for social spending.
  

Globally, food security faces severe challenges due to conflicts, climate change, and economic slowdowns. Achieving the United Nations' goal of zero hunger by 2030 is becoming increasingly difficult. A recent study indicates that an additional $21 billion annually in agriculture and rural areas is needed to end global hunger by 2040.

Role of G20 and South-South Collaboration

• India's G20 presidency in 2023, along with Brazil's in 2024, has had a positive impact on the global food security agenda.
• India facilitated the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20, reflecting a commitment to South-South cooperation. This collaboration is essential for addressing the food and nutritional security challenges faced by the Global South.
• The sequence of G20 presidencies, from Indonesia to India, Brazil, and then South Africa, suggests a shift in global food system governance.
• The changing dynamic presents an opportunity for the Global South, including India and Africa, to drive global food security agendas and advocate for investments in climate resilience and bioeconomy.

Recommendations made during the conference

• Enhancing South-South Cooperation: Strengthen collaboration between India and Africa in agricultural development and food security. Sharing best practices, technologies, and innovations can help both regions tackle their food security challenges more effectively.
• Increasing Investment in Agriculture: Both India and African countries need to increase their investment in agriculture, focusing on R&D, infrastructure, and extension services. This will enhance productivity, improve food security, and support nutritional outcomes.
• Global Advocacy: Leverage platforms like the G20 to advocate for global food security, climate resilience, and bioeconomy. Engaging with developing countries to address climate change and support global food systems transformation is crucial.
• Implementing Policy Reforms: Reform agricultural subsidies and reallocate resources to areas that can significantly impact growth and nutrition. Effective policies and investments are needed to create sustainable agricultural systems.
• Promoting Innovation and Research: Encourage innovation and research in agriculture to address emerging challenges and improve food security. Investment in new technologies and methods can drive progress in agricultural development.

India-Africa Partnership in Food Security

• The partnership between India and Africa in food security represents a crucial aspect of international cooperation, given the importance of addressing hunger and improving agricultural productivity.
• This collaboration focuses on sharing knowledge, technology, and resources to enhance food security across the African continent.

Key Aspects of the Partnership

Technological and Knowledge Transfer

• Agricultural Innovations: India and Africa working together to introduce advanced farming techniques and technologies. This includes precision farming, soil health management, and pest control methods that have proven successful in India.
• Training and Capacity Building: Indian agricultural experts conduct training programs for African farmers and agricultural scientists. This helps in the adoption of best practices in crop management, irrigation, and post-harvest processing.

Research and Development

• Joint Research Initiatives: Both India and African nations collaborate on research projects aimed at developing climate-resilient crop varieties and improving agricultural productivity. These projects often involve Indian and African research institutions working together to address local challenges.
• Field Trials: Testing new agricultural practices and technologies in African conditions helps to fine-tune solutions that are effective and sustainable.

Infrastructure Development

• Irrigation Projects: India has supported the development of irrigation infrastructure in various African countries, helping to increase water availability for agriculture.
• Cold Storage Facilities: To reduce post-harvest losses, India has assisted in setting up cold storage facilities and other essential infrastructure needed for preserving agricultural produce.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

• Export of Agricultural Goods: India and African countries engage in the trade of agricultural products, which helps in stabilizing food prices and ensuring food security.
• Investment in Agriculture: Indian businesses invest in agricultural ventures across Africa, bringing in capital and expertise to boost local food production.
  

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India’s experience with green revolution technologies has significantly increased food production, a model that African countries are looking to replicate.

Government Initiatives and Programs

• India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS): This summit is a platform where both sides discuss and strengthen cooperation in various sectors, including food security.
• Bilateral Agreements: Specific agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between Indian and African governments outline joint efforts to improve agricultural practices and food security.
  

●As of 2023, India has invested over $1 billion in agricultural projects in Africa. This includes funds for building infrastructure and supporting agricultural development programs. ●More than 2,000 African agricultural professionals have participated in training programs conducted by Indian institutions over the past decade, leading to improved agricultural practices and increased productivity in their respective countries.

Impact and Benefits

• Increased Food Production: The partnership has led to improved agricultural productivity, which helps feed more people and reduce hunger in Africa.
• Enhanced Agricultural Knowledge: Farmers and agricultural professionals gain valuable skills and knowledge, leading to better farm management and increased yields.
• Economic Growth: The collaboration contributes to economic growth by creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and fostering trade between India and African countries.

The India-Africa partnership in food security is a vital component of global efforts to combat hunger and improve agricultural practices. By combining resources, expertise, and technology, both India and Africa work towards achieving sustainable food security and fostering economic development across the continent.

Conclusion

• The 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) provided an opportunity for India and Africa to strengthen their partnership in food security. By sharing experiences and best practices, both regions can address common challenges, such as underfunding in agriculture and improving child nutrition.
• Enhanced South-South cooperation, increased investment in agricultural R&D, and global advocacy through platforms like the G20 are crucial for overcoming food security challenges. Together, India and Africa can drive progress towards sustainable agricultural development and better nutritional outcomes.

Must Read Articles:

India Africa Defence Relations

India-South Africa Relations

Food Security In India

India’s G20 Presidency

Source:

Indian Express

Wikipedia 

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. India is both a major producer and consumer of food commodities. How can the country protect its domestic food security while participating actively in global food trade and mitigating the risks associated with price volatility? What strategies can be employed to balance the interests of farmers, consumers, and exporters?