Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlights India’s agricultural growth, technology-driven farming and the role of women and youth as BRICS nations gather in Indore

Key Highlights

• The 16th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting commenced in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, bringing together member nations to strengthen agricultural cooperation.
• Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan called for greater global collaboration under the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
• India reported an average 4.5% annual agricultural growth over the past decade.
• The country’s foodgrain production has reached nearly 376 million tonnes, while horticulture production has crossed 378 million tonnes.
• The minister emphasized empowering small farmers, women and youth as key drivers of future agricultural transformation.
• Natural farming, digital technologies and innovation were highlighted as priorities for building resilient food systems.

India Showcases Agricultural Progress at BRICS Ministers’ Meeting

India used the inaugural session of the 16th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Indore to present its agricultural achievements and advocate stronger international cooperation on food security and sustainable farming.

Addressing delegates from BRICS nations, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India remains committed to building global partnerships under the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the belief that the world is one family. He also reiterated India’s approach of promoting cooperation and dialogue to address shared agricultural challenges.

The two-day conference is expected to focus on strengthening collaboration among BRICS countries through policy exchange, innovation and technology-driven solutions.

India Highlights Strong Agricultural Growth

During his address, the minister outlined India’s recent agricultural performance, stating that the sector has recorded an average annual growth of nearly 4.5% over the past decade.

He noted that:

• Foodgrain production has reached nearly 376 million tonnes.
• Wheat production is approaching 118 million tonnes.
• Horticulture production has crossed 378 million tonnes.
• Fish production has exceeded 19 million tonnes.

According to the minister, these achievements reflect a combination of farmer resilience and supportive government policies aimed at improving productivity and food security.

Focus on Small Farmers and Sustainable Agriculture

A major theme of the conference was the empowerment of small and marginal farmers, who constitute approximately 87% of India’s farming community.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan said strengthening their economic and technological capabilities is essential for achieving global food security. He highlighted initiatives such as:

• PM-Kisan financial assistance
• Kisan Credit Card scheme
• Crop insurance programmes
• Improved seed varieties
• Expansion of irrigation
• Digital agricultural services

The minister also stressed the importance of natural farming, balanced fertilizer use and maintaining soil health for long-term sustainability.

Women and Youth Driving Agricultural Transformation

The address underscored the increasing role of women and young entrepreneurs in modern agriculture.

Women-led Self-Help Groups and initiatives such as Drone Didi were cited as examples of technology enabling greater participation of women in rural economic development. At the same time, startups, innovation and digital technologies are encouraging more youth to enter the agricultural sector and build future-ready enterprises.

Why This Matters for Hospitality, Food & Tourism

The discussions at the BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting extend beyond farming and have significant implications for the hospitality and tourism ecosystem.

Food Supply and Culinary Industry

Higher agricultural productivity and resilient food systems can strengthen the supply of grains, fruits, vegetables and other ingredients essential for hotels, restaurants and foodservice businesses.

Farm-to-Table and Culinary Tourism

The growing emphasis on sustainable and natural farming aligns with the rising demand for farm-to-table dining experiences, regional cuisine and agri-tourism destinations that attract domestic and international travellers.

Hospitality Supply Chains

Improved agricultural cooperation and technology adoption can enhance food quality, traceability and supply chain efficiency, benefiting hotels, caterers and food processors.

MICE and Destination Promotion

Hosting the BRICS ministerial meeting positions Indore as an emerging destination for international conferences and government events, strengthening its profile in India’s growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism segment while generating demand for hotels, restaurants, transport and local attractions.

Industry Takeaway

The BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting reflects a broader shift toward integrating sustainability, technology and international cooperation in global food systems. For the hospitality and tourism industry, stronger agricultural ecosystems translate into more reliable sourcing, richer culinary experiences and greater opportunities for destination branding through food and farm-based tourism.