32nd ICAE Conference in India (GS Paper 3, Economy)
Introduction
- India is hosting the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) from August 2-7, 2024, in Delhi.
- This prestigious event, which marks a return to India after being last hosted in Mysore in 1958, is being attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
- The conference highlights the significant historical roots of ICAE in India and its evolution over the years.
Historical Context and Evolution of ICAE
- The ICAE's origins trace back to the early 20th century when Rabindranath Tagore, concerned about the disintegration of villages around Santiniketan, invited Lord L.K. Elmhirst to India.
- Their collaboration led to the establishment of a farm in Surul, focusing on scientific training and education to assist nearby villages.
- This initiative laid the groundwork for ICAE, which has evolved into a major forum for discussing agricultural economics and its impact on global food security.
About the International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE)
Purpose and Objectives
- The ICAE, organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE), aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and innovations in agricultural economics.
- It addresses global challenges related to agriculture, food security, rural development, and sustainability.
Participants and Sessions
- The conference attracts a diverse group of stakeholders, including academics, researchers, policymakers, industry professionals, and representatives from international organizations.
- It features keynote addresses, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and paper presentations on topics such as agricultural policy, market dynamics, trade, environmental impacts, technological advancements, and rural development.
Significance of ICAE in Addressing Global Food Security
Addressing Current Challenges
- ICAE plays a crucial role in addressing global food and nutritional security challenges exacerbated by climate change and geopolitical conflicts.
- India's success in the Green Revolution and White Revolution underscores its potential role in tackling these issues.
- The conference serves as a platform for India and Africa to share experiences and promote South-South collaboration to enhance nutritional security, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Comparative Study of Agricultural Economies
A special session at the ICAE will compare agricultural experiences of 20 major Indian states with 15 African countries from 2004-05 to 2019-20. Key findings include:
- High debt service ratios lead to lower agricultural spending relative to social protection.
- African countries consistently underfund agriculture compared to Indian states, hindering productivity and efforts to reduce child malnutrition.
- Enhancing public spending on agricultural R&D and extension is essential for both regions.
- Reforming subsidies and reallocating resources to infrastructure and R&D can boost agricultural growth and improve child nutrition outcomes.
Global Efforts and Challenges in Achieving Food Security
Costs and Investments
- The global fight against hunger faces substantial human and financial costs due to conflicts, climate crises, and economic slowdowns.
- The United Nations' goal of zero hunger by 2030 requires significant additional investments.
- A study by the University of Bonn (ZEF) and FAO estimates that $21 billion annually is needed to end global hunger by 2040.
India's Role and Leadership
- India's leadership in the G20 has positively impacted the global food security agenda, promoting a bioeconomy strategy and facilitating the African Union’s inclusion in the G20.
- The sequence of G20 presidencies from 2022 to 2025, including Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa, indicates a shift towards more inclusive governance of food systems, benefiting the Global South.
The Role of G20 and South-South Collaboration
Fostering Global Partnerships
- India's facilitation of the African Union’s membership in the G20 and its focus on South-South collaboration are vital in addressing food and nutritional security in the Global South.
- Developed countries in the G20 can support these efforts by promoting climate resilience and sharing scientific innovations for food systems transformation.
Why Food Security is Crucial for India
Population Pressure
- India’s large and growing population places significant pressure on agricultural production and food resources.
Agricultural Productivity
- Low productivity due to fragmented land holdings, inadequate irrigation, lack of modern techniques, and limited access to credit and technology affects India’s agricultural sector.
Climate Change and Natural Disasters
- Erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, impact crop yields and livestock productivity.
Water Scarcity
- Dependency on monsoon rains makes agriculture vulnerable to water scarcity in some regions.
Land Degradation and Soil Health
- Land degradation from erosion, overuse of chemical fertilizers, and improper management threatens productivity.
Storage and Distribution
- Inefficient storage and cold chain systems contribute to food losses and wastage.
Poverty and Inequality
- Access to nutritious food is a challenge for many, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.
Conclusion
- The ICAE conference in Delhi represents a significant opportunity for global dialogue on agricultural economics and food security.
- By fostering international collaboration and sharing best practices, the conference aims to address pressing global challenges related to food and nutritional security.
- India's leadership in this context emphasizes the need for continued efforts and investments to ensure sustainable and equitable food systems worldwide.
