Modernising agriculture with AI, climate investment vital for South Asia: Nazrul Islam Khan

A regional coordination meeting on South Asian agriculture on Tuesday underscored the urgency of stronger partnerships, technology adoption and increased investment to tackle climate challenges and ensure sustainable food systems across the region.

The meeting, titled “Coordination Meeting with Development Partners and Investors,” was organised by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) Bangladesh and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), South Asia.

Agriculture adviser to the PMO, Nazrul Islam Khan, focused on the central role of agriculture in South Asia’s economy.

He stressed the need for modernisation through advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, and warned that climate change remains a major threat requiring greater investment.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to farmers and called for sustained regional cooperation to ensure food security and broader welfare across South Asia.

A.K.M. Shahidul Karim, Additional Foreign Secretary (SAARC & BIMSTEC), emphasised deeper collaboration and technology-driven solutions.

He noted that agriculture continues to be the backbone of the region and urged a shift from food deficit concerns towards sustainable and action-oriented agricultural systems.-

Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) at the SAARC Secretariat, said notable progress has been made in agriculture across member states but stronger public-private partnerships are needed to achieve measurable outcomes.

Speaking at the event, Shahidur Rashid described agriculture as a sector facing multiple challenges, adding that collaboration among countries through platforms like SAC remains cost-effective in addressing common regional issues. He reiterated IFPRI’s continued support for South Asia.

Rudaba Khondker, Country Director of GAIN Bangladesh, called for collective efforts to transform food systems. She stressed the need for affordable and sustainable food for all, greater integration of nutrition into food systems and innovative financing mechanisms.

Chairing the session, Harunur Rashid, Director of SAC, outlined the centre’s strategic priorities and emphasised innovation, climate resilience and investment partnerships to accelerate sustainable agricultural development in the region.

The inaugural session was followed by two working sessions involving investors, development partners, researchers and collaborators from various SAARC member states, focusing on practical pathways for enhanced regional cooperation.

It brought together policymakers, researchers, investors and development partners from across SAARC member states.

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