National Seminar on Sustainable Agriculture: Successes, Challenges, and the Path Forward
National Seminar on Sustainable Agriculture: Successes, Challenges, and the Path Forward
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu: PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, hosted an ICSSR-sponsored One-Day National Seminar on the Implementation, Success, and Challenges of the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) on December 9, 2024. The event brought together policymakers, researchers, academicians, and students to discuss sustainable agricultural practices and address critical challenges in India’s agricultural landscape.
The seminar was presided over by Dr. M. Senguttuvan, Principal (i/c), and felicitated by Dr. T. Kannaian, Secretary of PSG College of Arts & Science. Organized by Dr. R. Ravikumar, Head of the Department of Economics, and Dr. M. Sampath, Organizing Secretary, the seminar focused on evaluating the NMSA’s progress in key areas such as soil health management, water conservation, and climate-resilient farming.
Dr. D. Suresh Kumar, Director of the Center for Research and Development Studies at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, inaugurated the seminar and delivered the keynote address, while Dr. S. Chinnammai, Professor and Head, Department of Economics, University of Madras, presided over the valedictory session.
Key Discussions and Recommendations
- Policy Implementation and Success Stories
The seminar commenced with a keynote address by Dr. D. Suresh Kumar, who outlined the NMSA’s policies and highlighted the government’s efforts to promote sustainable farming practices. The discussions showcased success stories from various states, such as Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Kerala, where farmers improved crop yields and livelihoods through organic farming and efficient water management. - Addressing Challenges and Future Outlook
Experts highlighted significant barriers to widespread adoption of sustainable practices, including limited access to technology, inadequate infrastructure, and climate change impacts. To overcome these challenges, the seminar emphasized:- Greater investment in farmer education and resource accessibility.
- Adoption of modern technologies like precision farming and digital tools for better efficiency.
- A collaborative approach involving government bodies, private organizations, and NGOs.
The seminar concluded with a call to action for enhanced partnerships among farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure the equitable implementation of sustainable practices across the country. The insights from this seminar are expected to influence future policies, aiming to build a resilient agricultural system that balances productivity with environmental sustainability.
The Department of Economics at PSG College expressed optimism that the seminar’s outcomes will contribute to the advancement of sustainable agriculture in India.
