SAARC calls for a united push towards regenerative agriculture

Speakers at the regional consultation meeting of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature.

The consultation aimed to address growing environmental challenges in agriculture by focusing on key issues such as restoring degraded soils, enhancing biodiversity, and building climate-resilient food systems to ensure long-term food security in South Asia.

The SAC has concluded a three-day virtual Regional Consultation Meeting, from August 4 to 6, on "Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture in SAARC Member States." The event brought together delegates from six SAARC countries, agricultural research bodies, universities, and international agencies to develop a collaborative strategy for promoting regenerative agriculture across the region.

Urgency and Collaboration Emphasised

Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, additional foreign secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) of Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served as the chief guest for the opening session. He stressed the urgent need to restore soil health and biodiversity and urged the SAC to lead a regional movement for agricultural transformation, integrating digital tools and practical strategies.

Md. Harunur Rashid, director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre, chaired the session. He highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a "transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature." He emphasised that these practices are crucial for long-term food security, improving farmer livelihoods, and strengthening regional agri-food systems.

Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat, Nepal, attended as a Special Guest. He pointed out the economic benefits of regenerative agriculture, stating, "This approach not only improves soil and environmental health but also delivers financial returns to farmers."

He called for a collaborative framework involving governments, scientists, and the private sector to scale up these practices.

Expert Presentations and Recommendations

Over the three days, six technical sessions featured more than 20 expert presentations. Focal point scientists and national specialists from SAARC member states presented country-specific papers, highlighting common regional challenges like rising temperatures, soil degradation, water scarcity, and financial constraints faced by farmers.

The experts advocated for knowledge sharing, farmer training, and the creation of large-scale extension programs tailored to the region's specific needs. Many speakers called for strong government support and greater cooperation among SAARC countries to facilitate the widespread adoption of regenerative practices, according to a press release.