He discussed initiatives such as Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), contract farming, crop diversification and diversification into livestock, fisheries, and other agricultural sectors. Dr. Chaturvedi also outlined government policies addressing the challenges of climate change, including the promotion of better seeds, water-use efficiency, sustainable soil health management, and the use of traditional natural farming practices. He emphasized role of surface water for irrigation through initiatives like Catch the Rain and improved irrigation solutions, including the maintenance of water reservoirs and ponds.
Ms. Hartman also shared Estonia’s notable achievements in organic farming, food safety, and sustainable agricultural practices. She highlighted the country’s expertise in IT-driven agricultural solutions, including innovations in water optimization and precision agriculture. Ms. Hartman also expressed interest in collaborating with India on food processing, value addition in agricultural products, and the application of technology-driven solutions to enhance agricultural productivity.
Further, Mr. Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), highlighted the significant opportunities for collaboration in India’s food processing sector, while the Shri Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary for International Cooperation at the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, underscored the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships in the agri-tech start-up ecosystem between both countries.Both sides expressed strong interest in further exploring avenues for cooperation through institutional mechanisms, with an emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices, technology exchange, and capacity-building initiatives in agriculture and allied sectors.The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides, including Shri Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary (MoFPI), Sh. Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary (IC) at the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The Estonian delegation included Ms. Marje Luup, Ambassador of Estonia to India, Ms. Marika Saar, Counsellor, and Mr. Margus Solnson, Deputy Head of Mission. This bilateral engagement marks an important step forward in fostering closer ties and cooperation between India and Estonia in the agriculture and allied sectors.
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