India-U.S. Agricultural Synergy Summit: A Milestone for Collaborative Growth in Agribusiness
New Delhi – The India-U.S. Agricultural Synergy Summit, organized jointly by the U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) with support from various industry associations, held on 30th January 2024 at the Imperial Hotel, New Delhi. The summit emerged as a pivotal moment, shaping the trajectory of sustainable agribusiness growth in India. The event served as a dynamic platform, bringing together key industry leaders, experts, and associations to deliberate on transformative strategies for the nation’s agricultural landscape.
Mr. Clay M. Hamilton, Minister Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs, US Department of Agriculture, US Embassy, delivered impactful opening remarks. Dr. Seth Meyer, Chief Economist, US Department of Agriculture, presented insightful perspectives on opportunities and challenges in the Global Agricultural Space. Mr. Suresh Chitturi delivered a compelling presentation on the State of the Indian Livestock Sector, and Dr. Vijay Singh, Professor from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA, shared valuable insights on India-US collaboration in Industrial Starch Processing.
The highlight of the summit was the panel discussion, titled “Win-Win Agriculture: Aspirations for Future Collaboration,” featuring prominent figures such as Mr. Kevin Roepke, Regional Director, South Asia & Sub-Saharan Africa, USSEC; Mr. Reece Cannady, Director, U.S. Grains Council; Mr. Naveen Pasuparthy, President, KPFBA; and Mr. Ramakanth Akula, CEO, The Waterbase Limited.
Distinguished panellists, including Mr. Suresh Deora (CLFMA OF INDIA), Mr. Chandan Shirgaokar (All India Distillers’ Association – AIDA), Dr. CK Jain (GULSHAN POLYOLS LTD), and Mr. Sumit Agarwal (Soy Food Promotion and Welfare Association), actively participated in fruitful discussions, contributing valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue. Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, Vice President, and Mr. Ricky Thaper, Treasurer, from the Poultry Federation of India also participated in this event.
Key takeaways from the summit include the projection of a remarkable 15% growth in protein consumption by 2031 and commendable initiatives by the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, introducing eggs in mid-day meals as significant steps towards enhancing nutrition.
A milestone achievement during the event was the launch of the India Soy Excellence Centre by Mr. Kevin Roepke, Regional Director for South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, USSEC, further solidifying collaborative efforts between India and the U.S. in the field of agriculture.
The summit, jointly supported by industry associations including the Poultry Federation of India, CLFMA of India, All India Poultry Breeders Association, Karnataka Poultry Farmers and Breeders Association, Soy Food Promotion & Welfare Association, and others, showcased the power of collaboration in fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
The summit concluded on a positive note, encapsulated in the phrase: “Together, let’s feed the minds of those who feel the world.” This sentiment underscores the shared commitment of stakeholders to contribute to global food security and foster a sustainable future for the agricultural sector.
