President Murmu Launches Symposium on Farmers' Rights & Agro-Biodiversity, Bestows Awards upon Farmers

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the historic first-ever Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights at the prestigious Pusa complex on Tuesday. The event marks a significant milestone in the realm of agricultural conservation and the recognition of local and indigenous farmers' contributions.

On a momentous occasion, President Murmu also unveiled the Plant Authority Centre and bestowed awards upon six farmer communities and 20 individual farmers for their exemplary efforts in conserving agro-biodiversity. These individuals and communities have played a pivotal role in safeguarding the rich tapestry of plant genetic resources.

The symposium, which spans from September 12th to 15th, is a landmark event, marking the first gathering of its kind since the adoption of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in 2001. The symposium aims to underscore the critical importance of farmers' rights in preserving and nurturing plant genetic diversity.

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According to Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA), the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture recognizes the substantial contributions of local and indigenous farmers in conserving and enhancing plant genetic resources. These resources are instrumental in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

Mohapatra further emphasized that the symposium would serve as a platform for comprehensive discussions on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the implementation of farmers' rights by contracting parties and other stakeholders. The interconnectedness of farmers' rights with international human rights will be explored, and strategies to support the effective realization of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework will be identified.

The event is expected to draw around 500 delegates from India and abroad, including representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, and the Government of India. Attendees will encompass a diverse spectrum of participants, including farmers, agricultural organizations, and scientists.

One of the highlights of the symposium will be an exhibition showcasing India's rich plant genetic resources and agro-biodiversity, allowing attendees to gain insights into the nation's vibrant agricultural heritage.

The Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights promises to be a landmark event in the quest to protect and celebrate the invaluable contributions of farmers in safeguarding our planet's agricultural diversity. It is a testament to the collective commitment to securing our agricultural future in the face of evolving challenges.

The symposium is a pivotal step toward promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering global collaboration in the vital task of conserving plant genetic resources for generations to come.

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