ICAR Push for Agri-Scientists in Embassies: A Vision for 2047

Venugopal Badaravada, an ICAR Governing Body member, urges PM Modi to appoint agri-scientists as attaches in Indian embassies in G20 countries. The initiative aims to enhance international agricultural collaboration, leveraging Indian expertise for technology exchange with countries like Brazil, ultimately benefiting Indian farmers.

Venugopal Badaravada, a member of the ICAR Governing Body, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to designate agricultural scientists as attaches at Indian embassies across G20 nations. The move is aimed at supporting India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

In his letter, Badaravada expressed concern over the slow pace of agricultural collaboration, despite notable agreements with countries such as Brazil. He highlighted past Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, including a landmark 2008 agreement.

Badaravada stressed that while Indian embassies currently employ IFS officers for agricultural matters, their broader trade duties don't always accommodate needed agricultural expertise. He suggested that ICAR scientists could bridge this gap, leading to sustainable practices and technological exchanges that benefit Indian agriculture directly.

(With inputs from agencies.)