India highlights food safety net programs under G20 presidency

India, currently holding the G20 Presidency, has placed a significant emphasis on food safety net programs and achieved a “historic consensus” within the agriculture working group on two pivotal aspects, including the promotion of millets

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Smita Sirohi, Joint Secretary responsible for G20-related matters in the Ministry of Agriculture, underscored the importance of this achievement as agriculture ministers joined forces to address pressing concerns related to food security and nutrition, marking a departure from the customary ministerial communiques.

The historic consensus centers around two key aspects: the Deccan G20 High-level principles on Food Security and Nutrition and the Millet initiative, known as MAHARISHI. These high-level principles on food security and nutrition constitute a comprehensive framework comprising seven fundamental principles:

Humanitarian Assistance: The commitment to providing assistance in times of crisis or natural disasters, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential food supplies. Increasing Food Production and Food Security Net Programs: Focusing on enhancing agricultural production and strengthening safety net programs to safeguard against food insecurity.

Climate-Smart Approach: Embracing sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices to mitigate the impact of climate change on food production.