NEW DELHI: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini on Friday said that India and Africa are building a future based on mutual trust, technology, inclusivity and prosperity.
Speaking at the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave here, CM Saini said that the state government’s vision goes beyond increasing production.
“Our aim is to make agriculture a sustainable and profitable business for our people, ” CM Saini said.
The Chief Minister added that Haryana is supporting farmers at every stage, from cultivation to selling their produce in the market.
Addressing a session on ‘From Farm to Future: Sharing India’s Experience - The Haryana Story’, CM Saini said that the innovations and technologies being used in Haryana’s agriculture sector can also be replicated in Africa.
He highlighted government initiatives on soil health, stubble management, water efficiency, agriculture education and skill development.
He also mentioned the ‘Meri Fasal Mera Byora’ portal, which helps farmers access government schemes, sell their produce and get timely payments.
Leaders from Mauritius and Zimbabwe also underlined the importance of India’s agricultural experience for Africa.
Mauritius Minister of Commerce John Michael Tzoun Sao Yeung Sik Yuen said India’s use of technology in agriculture, from drones to mobile apps, has transformed farming and can benefit African nations.
Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture Vangelis Peter Haritatos stressed that sustainable practices are essential to deal with climate change, population growth and resource scarcity, and said that India-Africa collaboration can create opportunities in production, value addition, finance and technology.
Industry leaders at the conclave, including CII President Designate R Mukundan and Sun International Chairman Vikramjit Singh Sahney, echoed the view that agriculture can be a strong bond between India and Africa.