International Conference of Agricultural Economists

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in the News?
• About International Conference of Agricultural Economists
• News Summary
• Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Speech

Why in the News?

• The 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.

About International Conference of Agricultural Economists

• The International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) is a prestigious event organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE).
• This conference gathers experts, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world to discuss critical issues and advancements in agricultural economics.
• Purpose:
  • The ICAE aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and innovations in the field of agricultural economics.
  • It addresses global challenges related to agriculture, food security, rural development, and sustainability.
• Participants:
  • The conference attracts a diverse group of attendees, including academics, researchers, government officials, industry professionals, and representatives from international organizations.
  • It serves as a platform for networking and collaboration among these stakeholders.
• Sessions and Topics:
  • The ICAE features a wide range of sessions, including keynote addresses, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and paper presentations.
  • Topics covered include agricultural policy, market dynamics, trade, environmental impacts, technological advancements, and rural development.
• Global Impact:
  • The conference plays a significant role in shaping agricultural policies and practices worldwide by providing evidence-based insights and recommendations.
  • It promotes the application of economic principles to improve agricultural productivity, sustainability, and food security.
• Frequency and Location:
  • The ICAE is held every three years in different locations around the world, emphasizing its global scope and reach.

News Summary

• The triennial conference organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) is being held in India from August 2 to 7, 2024, marking its return to the country after 65 years.
• The theme for this year's conference is "Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems," focusing on sustainable agriculture amidst global challenges such as climate change, resource degradation, rising production costs, and conflicts.
• The conference will highlight India's proactive approach to global agricultural challenges and showcase its advancements in agricultural research and policy.
• It provides a platform for young researchers and leading professionals to present their work, network with global peers, and strengthen partnerships between research institutes and universities.
• The event aims to influence policymaking on national and global scales and exhibit India's progress in digital agriculture and sustainable agri-food systems.
• Approximately 1,000 delegates from 75 countries are participating in the conference.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Speech

• PM Modi welcomed delegates from 75 countries on behalf of millions of Indian farmers, highlighting India's deep agricultural roots.
• He emphasized the longevity and scientific basis of ancient Indian agricultural practices and their relevance today.
• He highlighted India’s diverse agro-climatic zones and the significance of this diversity for global food security.
• He noted India's transformation from a food-insecure nation to a major global producer of various agricultural products.
• He stressed the importance of sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices, including natural farming and the development of climate-resilient crop varieties.
• He reiterated India's commitment to global welfare and the sharing of agricultural innovations and experiences with the global community.
• He discussed initiatives like Soil Health Cards, solar farming, e-NAM, and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi to modernize Indian agriculture.
• He highlighted the use of digital technology for real-time crop surveys, land digitization, and promoting drone use in farming.
• He also acknowledged the seriousness of the nutrition challenge along with water scarcity and climate change. He presented Shri Anna, Millet as a solution given the superfood's quality of ‘minimum water and maximum production’.
• PM Modi expressed India’s willingness to share India’s millet basket with the world and mentioned the last year being celebrated as the International Year of Millets.
• He expressed confidence in the conference fostering learning and collaboration towards sustainable agri-food systems.

Q1. When is Millet Day celebrated?

International Millet Day is observed on 19th December every year to celebrate the significance of millet in our lives. Millets are one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world, and India is the largest producer of millets.

Q2. What do you mean by Aquaculture?

The term aquaculture broadly refers to the cultivation of aquatic organisms in controlled aquatic environments for any commercial, recreational or public purpose.

Source: Agriculture is at the centre of economic policymaking, says PM Modi at Global Agri Economists Meet 

PIB