India is stepping up its agricultural engagement with Southeast Asian countries, with a focus on strengthening cooperation in agricultural research, technology, innovation, trade and food security.
Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan held bilateral discussions with representatives from Malaysia, Timor-Leste and Myanmar, exploring opportunities to expand collaboration across agriculture and allied sectors.
The discussions with Malaysia focused on strengthening institutional cooperation and encouraging the exchange of agricultural knowledge, technologies and expertise. Areas such as agricultural research, innovation, trade and the exchange of plant genetic resources were among the subjects considered for greater collaboration.
With Timor-Leste, the discussions centred on supporting agricultural development and improving food security. India explored possibilities for sharing technical knowledge, scientific expertise and agricultural best practices. Cooperation in capacity building and exchanges involving agricultural experts and institutions could help strengthen the country’s agricultural capabilities.
India and Myanmar also discussed opportunities to expand cooperation across agriculture and allied sectors. Areas of mutual interest include pulses, cotton, dairy development, agricultural education and trade. Greater collaboration could create opportunities for stronger agricultural supply chains and closer economic engagement between the two countries.
The bilateral discussions form part of India’s broader engagement with the ASEAN region, where agriculture remains an important area of cooperation. Countries across the region face common challenges related to climate change, food security, water management, agricultural productivity and sustainable farming.
Greater cooperation in these areas can encourage the exchange of technologies, research findings and practical farming solutions while opening new avenues for agricultural trade.
For India, stronger agricultural partnerships with ASEAN countries also provide an opportunity to connect research and innovation with international markets, while contributing to regional food security.
The growing engagement reflects a broader shift towards collaborative agriculture – where countries can share knowledge, technologies and resources to build more productive, resilient and sustainable food systems.
As agricultural challenges increasingly cross national boundaries, cooperation between India and its Southeast Asian partners could play an important role in shaping the future of agriculture and food security in the region.
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