India, Russia discuss deeper agricultural cooperation

New Delhi, Sep 26: Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, held a high-level meeting with Dmitry Patrushev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, at Krishi Bhawan today to explore ways to deepen bilateral agricultural cooperation.

The discussions focused on enhancing trade between the two countries, particularly by expanding India’s agricultural exports, and strengthening technical and research partnerships. Chouhan highlighted India’s priorities in agriculture, including food security, farmer welfare, and access to safe and nutritious food.

Emphasising the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, “the world is one family” he underlined the importance of international collaboration for farmers’ welfare.

Deputy Prime Minister Patrushev noted the robust history of India-Russia cooperation across multiple sectors, expressing Russia’s keen interest in formalising agricultural collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Both sides discussed improving market access for key products, advancing seed traceability systems, and promoting academic exchanges and scholarship opportunities for students.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Patrushev reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth in agriculture, emphasising joint efforts in trade, education, research, and technology-driven innovation.

The Russian delegation included Deputy Minister of Agriculture Maksim Markovich, Ambassador Denis Alipov, and Sergey Dankvert, Head of the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance.

Representing India were Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, Additional Secretary from the Ministry of External Affairs, Joint Secretaries from the International Cooperation and Plant Protection divisions, and senior officials from DARE, DAHD, and other departments.