BRICS Agriculture Ministers Adopt Historic Indore Declaration
The BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting concluded in Indore with the unanimous adoption of the 'Indore Declaration', marking a significant milestone in global agricultural cooperation. The declaration represents a farmer-centric global commitment focused on strengthening food security, nutritional security, farmer welfare, climate-resilient agriculture, agricultural trade, and digital agriculture. Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that BRICS countries represent nearly half of the world's population, possess around 42% of global agricultural land, and contribute approximately 42% of global foodgrain production, making their collective voice a powerful force on the global stage.
Four Key Priority Areas Deliberated
Extensive deliberations were held around four key priorities: ensuring food security and nutritional security for BRICS countries and the world; promoting agricultural trade and cooperation among BRICS nations; advancing regenerative, climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices in response to climate change; and strengthening innovation, technology and partnerships in food systems and agriculture. A dedicated session was organized for small and marginal farmers, focusing on their challenges, access to agricultural inputs, credit availability, remunerative prices, and market linkages.
Four New Institutional Initiatives Launched
The meeting resulted in the announcement of four major global agricultural platforms. The BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence on Agro-Ecology and Regenerative Agriculture will serve as a platform for joint research, knowledge sharing and capacity building, with the Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, serving as India's Centre of Excellence.
The BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture will strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence, geospatial technologies, digital public infrastructure and data-driven agricultural solutions, coordinated by IIT Delhi.
The Global Forum on Farmers' Rights in Seed Systems will focus on protecting farmers' rights related to seeds, conserving indigenous seed diversity and preserving traditional knowledge systems.
BRICS AgriN (Agro Inputs, Genetic Resources and Information Network) will facilitate information exchange, technical cooperation, capacity building and partnerships in agricultural inputs, seeds and genetic resources.
Existing Platforms and Trade Cooperation
BRICS countries agreed to further strengthen the existing BRICS Agricultural Research Platform and develop it into a robust "Knowledge-to-Action Hub" to ensure research reaches farmers' fields. The nations reaffirmed their commitment to a fair, equitable, inclusive and transparent multilateral trading system, with discussions on initiatives such as a BRICS Grain Exchange gaining fresh momentum through a special dialogue organized by India.
Climate Change and Input Cost Management
Addressing climate change concerns, the declaration promotes regenerative, climate-resilient agricultural practices as a shared responsibility. Regarding El Niño impacts, countries discussed collaborative strategies and information-sharing mechanisms. On carbon credits, Minister Chouhan noted that an established mechanism exists where farmers following prescribed procedures can benefit.
In response to rising fertilizer costs due to global conflicts and increasing raw material prices, the Government of India confirmed it will continue providing urea at ₹266 per bag and DAP at ₹1,350 per bag, with the Central Government bearing the additional financial burden. India is promoting natural farming, organic farming and balanced chemical use in mission mode while creating awareness through campaigns such as "Khet Bachao Abhiyan".
Technology Access and Inclusion
To address technology access for small farmers, Custom Hiring Centres and group-based models have been developed across India to provide agricultural machinery on rent, enabling small farmers to access drones and modern equipment. The declaration explicitly incorporates greater participation of youth and women, recognizing the role of agri-startups, agribusinesses, and technology-based services in attracting young people to agriculture.
Implementation and Global Significance
Member countries agreed to work collectively and continuously to ensure that the initiatives outlined in the declaration are implemented effectively and deliver tangible benefits to farmers, rural communities and food systems. The successful organization of the BRICS meetings in Indore involved contributions from the Government of Madhya Pradesh and various departments of the Government of India including Agriculture, External Affairs, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Commerce, Food Processing Industries and NITI Aayog, representing a "Whole of Government Approach" and "Team India" spirit.