GS-PAPER- III/ Economy

THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMISTS (IAAE)

The IAAE is a worldwide professional membership association of agricultural economists, whose mission is to promote the common business interests of economists having as a major focus of their work the study of the economics of agriculture. IAAE  is a growing network of agricultural economics professionals and practitioners from around the world.

32^nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE 2024)

The 32^nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE), from 2-7 August 2024 in New Delhi, India. After the previous ICAE in 2021 had to be held virtually due to the COVID pandemic.

Main point about ICAE 2024-

• The Prime Minister of India inaugurated the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) at the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex in New Delhi.
• This is triennial conference organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists is being held from 02 to 07 August 2024 and is taking place in India after 65 years.
• Theme is “Transformation towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems,”
• It focuses on the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, rising production costs, and conflicts.

About International Conference of Agricultural Economists

• Leonard Elmhirst of England is credited with establishing the International Conference of Agricultural Economists, having organized the inaugural event in Devon, England, in 1929.
• This conference assembles leading agricultural economists and scholars to address global agricultural issues.
• India previously hosted the 10th International Conference of Agricultural Economists in Mysore in 1958.

Key highlights of the International Conference of Agricultural Economists

Prime Minister’s Address

• Welcomed delegates from 75 countries on behalf of India’s 120 million farmers, including 30 million women farmers, 30 million fishermen, and 80 million livestock farmers.
• Emphasized India’s rich agricultural heritage and its commitment to integrating science and logic into agricultural practices.
• Highlighted the strength of India’s agricultural research and education system, which includes over 100 research institutes, 500 agricultural colleges, and 700 Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
• Mentioned the contribution of India’s diverse agro-climatic zones to global food security.

Significance of International Conference of Agricultural Economists-

• Global Food Security– The conference highlights India’s pivotal role in global food security by showcasing its agricultural diversity and advancements in research. It underscores how India’s expertise and innovations in farming can contribute to addressing global food and nutrition challenges.
• Sustainable Agriculture– The conference theme and India’s proactive efforts highlight the crucial role of sustainable agriculture in tackling global issues such as climate change and resource depletion.
• Technological Advancements– By showcasing India’s adoption of modern technology in agriculture, the conference highlights initiatives that offer benefits to Indian farmers while also contributing to global agricultural practices.
• International Collaboration– The event encourages international collaboration by providing young researchers and professionals with opportunities to connect, exchange ideas, and shape agricultural policies both nationally and globally.

India’s Achievements in the field of Agriculture:

Agricultural production:

• India has become a food surplus nation and is the leading producer of milk, pulses, and spices.
• It ranks second in the production of food grains, fruits, vegetables, cotton, sugar, tea, and farmed fish.
• India’s experience and model offer valuable insights for global discussions on transforming food systems, particularly for developing countries.

Technological integration:

• The integration of digital technologies in agriculture has introduced several transformative tools and programs. Soil Health Cards, for instance, provide farmers with detailed insights into soil conditions, helping them optimize nutrient management.
• Solar farming offers a sustainable energy solution, enabling farmers to harness solar power for their operations.
• The e-NAM (Electronic National Agriculture Market) platform digitizes agricultural markets, facilitating smoother transactions and broader market access for farmers.
• The Kisan Credit Card scheme offers financial support to farmers, while the PM Fasal Bima Yojana provides insurance coverage against crop losses.
• Efforts to digitize land records are also underway, improving land management and transparency. Furthermore, the promotion of drone technology in farming is set to enhance crop monitoring and precision agriculture practices.

Focus on Nutrition and Sustainability:

• The promotion of natural farming and the cultivation of millets are gaining traction as effective solutions to address water scarcity and nutritional challenges.
• Highlights of initiatives like the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi are making a significant impact by providing direct bank transfers to farmers, ensuring timely and efficient financial support. These efforts collectively aim to enhance agricultural sustainability and improve the well-being of farmers.

India’s Global Welfare Commitment:

• India is dedicated to global welfare as a ‘Vishwa Bandhu,’ adopting a holistic philosophy of ‘One Earth, One Family, and One Future.’
• The focus is on sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, highlighted by the development of nearly 1,900 new climate-resilient crop varieties over the past decade.

Conclusion-

The International Conference of Agricultural Economists in India was pivotal for advancing agricultural dialogue and cooperation. It showcased India’s use of its agricultural diversity and technology to address global food security and sustainability. The event facilitated valuable exchanges among experts, researchers, and policymakers, promoting collaborative efforts to enhance agricultural practices and policies.

Source- PIB