NEW DELHI, 28 February 2024: In a meeting recently, India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) charted a course for enhanced cooperation in the agricultural sector, highlighting shared goals and India's potential contributions.

Deepening Ties, Nourishing Growth

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Arjun Munda, met with H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, at Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi. The meeting emphasized India's commitment to strengthening relations with ASEAN in line with its Act East Policy, with a specific focus on deepening cooperation in the agricultural domain.

Joint Efforts, Shared Benefits

Both parties acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts on food security, a critical concern for both regions. India highlighted the success of the ASEAN-India Millets Festival, stressing the need for joint efforts to mainstream millets, a nutritious and climate-resilient crop.

Furthermore, India announced training programs for ASEAN member states at various ICAR institutions, specifically focusing on post-harvest agriculture.

Leveraging Expertise, Addressing Challenges

Dr. Hourn commended India's efforts in agricultural cooperation and proposed joint initiatives in sustainable agriculture, digitalization in the agricultural sector, and reducing harmful agrochemicals. He expressed interest in leveraging India's expertise and scientific knowledge to address challenges faced by ASEAN member states.

India's unwavering support

Minister Munda reiterated India's commitment to strengthening and expanding the India-ASEAN partnership, especially in the realm of agriculture. This collaboration holds significant potential for fostering sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring food security, and ultimately, uplifting the well-being of farmers across both regions.

This news article incorporates a catchy headline and highlights the key points of the meeting, including the focus on food security, millets, training programs, and collaborative efforts in sustainable agriculture and technology.