Current Affairs - Agriculture

The Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) program, spearheaded by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, received the prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity 2024. This recognition highlights the state's efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security, and fostering climate resilience among smallholder farmers. The program's innovative approach supports transitioning from conventional to natural farming practices, contributing significantly to ecosystem protection and rural empowerment in Andhra Pradesh.

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) collaborated with the Australian Government to launch the Australia-India Critical Agriculture Skills Pilot Project. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural skills through pilot projects in various Indian states, focusing on 5 critical job roles identified through extensive consultations. The project intends to scale this model to other sectors beyond agriculture, fostering bilateral cooperation in skill development between India and Australia.

Jammu & Kashmir expanded its Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with New Zealand into a comprehensive strategic agreement on June 12. This partnership aims to enhance the sheep and goat sectors through New Zealand’s expertise in breeding technology, sustainable farm management, and advanced disease control measures. The collaboration includes extensive training programs, genetic innovations, and workshops conducted by New Zealand experts in Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on optimizing value chains and implementing cutting-edge agricultural practices to boost sector efficiency and profitability.

A court in the Philippines recently revoked biosafety permits for commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice and Bt eggplant. Golden Rice, a genetically engineered variety of rice, contains beta carotene, addressing Vitamin A deficiency. The decision has implications for the adoption of genetically modified crops globally and debates surrounding their safety and regulation.

Google Arts & Culture partnered with India's Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to launch the "Millets: Seeds of Change" exhibition, highlighting the historical and nutritional significance of millets. This collaboration aims to showcase the evolution of millets from ancient staples to modern superfoods, emphasizing their importance in addressing global food security challenges and promoting cultural preservation through digital platforms.