Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has inaugurated the 16th Agricultural Science Congress (ASC) in Kochi, Kerala in order to promote Sustainability in the Agri-Food System.Organized by the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), the ASC will come out with recommendations that facilitate the agriculture sector for moving towards a path of greater sustainability.
Agricultural Science Congress (ASC): The ASC serves as a platform for experts, researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders in the agricultural and allied sectors to come together and discuss various critical areas related to agriculture, sustainability, and related subjects.
National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS): NAAS is a prestigious organization based in India, established with the aim of promoting agricultural science and research. The primary objective of NAAS is to provide a forum for agricultural scientists to deliberate on significant issues and advancements in the field of agriculture and related sciences.
Sustainable Agri Food Systems
- Sustainable agri-food systems encompass a holistic approach to agricultural production, distribution, consumption, and waste management that is environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically viable.
- These systems aim to meet current food needs while ensuring long-term sustainability, minimizing negative impacts on the environment, improving livelihoods, and promoting social well-being.
- In 2020, global agrifood systems emissions were 16 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, an increase of 9 % since 2000.
Need for Adopting Sustainability in Agri Food Systems
Rising Demand for Food
- The increasing global demand for food necessitates sustainable agri-food systems to ensure sufficient and consistent food production to meet the needs of a growing population.
Environmental Degradation
- Widespread environmental degradation caused by unsustainable agricultural practices underlines the urgency to transition to sustainable methods to mitigate further harm to the environment.
Climate Change Challenges
- Climate change poses a significant threat to agriculture. Sustainable practices are essential to adapt to these challenges and reduce the sector’s contribution to climate change.
- There are several sustainable and climate resistant agricultural practices in India which are recognised by the GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems), like Pokkali rice, Kuttanad below Sea Level Farming System of Kerala etc.
Sustainability be Adopted in Agri Food Systems
Enhanced Technological Interventions
- Scientific innovations and advanced technological interventions are pivotal for sustainable agricultural practices, aiding in efficient resource use and reducing negative environmental impacts.
Genome Editing and Modern Technologies
- Genome editing and other modern technologies are highlighted as core tools for technological breakthroughs in agriculture, addressing limitations of traditional breeding methods.
Carbon-Neutral Agricultural Practices
- Transitioning to carbon-neutral agricultural practices can be adopted to mitigate climate impacts, promote environmental sustainability, and contribute to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.