Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasises promoting production and export of soya in India
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan led the Indian delegation at the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting held in Brasilia, Brazil, marking a significant step towards strengthening India’s agricultural trade, technology, and innovation partnerships with BRICS countries, especially Brazil.
Themed “Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperation, Innovation and Equitable Trade among BRICS Countries,” the meeting saw participation from Agriculture Ministers and senior officials of BRICS members, including Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.
During his address, Chouhan emphasised the importance of empowering small farmers and stated that the goal of global food security will remain incomplete without safeguarding their interests. Reaffirming India’s commitment to inclusive, equitable, and sustainable agriculture, he advocated for greater international cooperation in agricultural technology, innovation, capacity building, and trade facilitation.
Highlighting India’s efforts in modernising its agricultural sector, Chouhan promoted the production and export of soya in India and expressed India’s willingness to adopt climate-friendly soyabean varieties, precision farming, and sustainable practices from Brazil. He also showed interest in Brazil’s advanced agricultural mechanisation, irrigation systems, and research models.
In addition to the BRICS meeting, Chouhan held bilateral meetings with Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Carlos Henrique Baquetta Favero, and Minister of Agricultural Development and Family Agriculture, Luiz Paulo Teixeira. Discussions centred around enhancing cooperation in agriculture, agro-technology, rural development, and food security.
The Union Minister also engaged with 27 members of Brazil’s agribusiness community in São Paulo, where opportunities in agricultural trade, food processing, biofuels, production technology, and supply chain integration were explored.
Chouhan’s visit is expected to pave the way for deeper India-Brazil collaboration in agriculture and contribute to strengthening global food security through joint efforts and technological exchange.