Strengthening farm ties between India and Ukraine
India and Ukraine Begin Agricultural Partnership through Joint Working Group: India and Ukraine have taken a major step towards working together in the agricultural sector. On June 18, 2025, both countries held their first-ever Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on agriculture. The meeting, conducted virtually, saw participation from top-level officials from both sides. From India, Shri Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, co-chaired the session. From Ukraine, Ms. Oksana Osmachko, Deputy Minister from the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food, led the talks.
This discussion was not just about diplomacy. It showed how both nations are looking for real, hands-on ways to improve farming and food systems. The topics went beyond usual trade deals. They talked about digital farming, mechanisation, plant genetics, and food processing—all crucial for modern agriculture.
India’s innovative contributions to the meeting
India used this opportunity to present some of its most forward-looking initiatives. It showcased the e-NAM platform, which helps farmers sell produce online, the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oilseeds, and the National Food Security Mission for Pulses. These projects aim to make agriculture more productive, climate-friendly, and secure for small farmers.
India also stressed on the importance of digital tools, risk reduction for farmers through credit schemes, and climate-resilient crops. These points reflect India’s push towards sustainable farming practices in a changing climate.
Ukraine’s vision for agricultural cooperation
Ukraine came in with clear ideas too. The country expressed deep interest in partnering with India for food processing, farm mechanisation, and plant breeding using genome editing. It showed eagerness to improve soil fertility and agricultural mapping through knowledge exchange. Ukraine recognized that India’s farming experience and institutional strength can be valuable in pushing forward its own agri-tech ambitions.
Mutual areas of collaboration
Some of the key areas that were highlighted for joint efforts include:
- Horticulture and crop diversification
- Research partnerships involving institutions like ICAR and FSSAI
- Technology transfer and training programmes
- Improving market access and food safety standards
The plan also includes collaborative work under India’s Ministry of Food Processing and other bodies.
Importance of this new partnership
This meeting marks the first formal agricultural dialogue between India and Ukraine, sending a strong message about cooperation in uncertain global times. The move helps both nations address challenges like food security, climate change, and farm sustainability. It also boosts India’s status as a global agricultural partner—an important image as the country looks to expand its leadership in the farm-tech space.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Key Topic | Detail |
| First JWG Meeting Date | June 18, 2025 |
| Mode of Meeting | Virtual |
| India Co-Chair | Shri Ajeet Kumar Sahu |
| Ukraine Co-Chair | Ms. Oksana Osmachko |
| India’s Key Schemes Highlighted | e-NAM, National Mission on Edible Oils, Food Security Mission – Pulses |
| Ukraine’s Focus Areas | Genome editing, Mechanisation, Soil mapping |
| Institutions Involved | ICAR, FSSAI, Ministry of Food Processing |
| Core Themes | Digital agriculture, Food processing, Technology transfer |
| Static GK Fact | ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) was established in 1929 and plays a vital role in agri-research |
| Global Relevance | Supports SDG goals on food security and sustainable agriculture |
