President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu is set to inaugurate the international research conference titled “From Research to Impact: Towards Just and Resilient Agri-Food Systems” on October 9, 2023, at NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi.
The upcoming international research conference is set to be inaugurated by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, promises to be a significant milestone in the pursuit of gender equality and resilient agricultural systems. With a theme focused on the journey “From research to impact,” this four-day event will convene experts, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to foster just and resilient agri-food systems.
Partners in Progress: CGIAR and ICAR
This conference is a collaborative effort between the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Together, they aim to harness the power of research to empower women to assume leadership roles in agriculture and food systems transformation.
The conference boasts a distinguished lineup of speakers and guests, including Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare; Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa; and Professor Andrew Campbell, CGIAR’s interim Executive Managing Director. Their presence underscores the significance of this event in driving change in the agricultural landscape.
The Significance of the Theme: Women-Led Development
In the wake of the recent G20 Summit, which unequivocally endorsed women-led development, the conference’s theme takes on added importance. It recognizes the need to promote leadership and decision-making roles for women in critical areas such as climate change, food security, and nutrition.
One of the core objectives of this conference is to bridge the gap between research and practical implementation. It aims to share cutting-edge knowledge and insights that can contribute to gender equality and socially inclusive, resilient food systems.
Addressing Global Gender Inequality Challenges
Globally, gender inequality within agri-food systems remains a significant challenge. The ongoing disparities have been exacerbated by crises like COVID-19 and climate change. This conference seeks to combine research, evidence, and practical understanding to guide policymakers and investors toward solutions that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform and ICAR will bring together a global network of gender researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Together, they will assess existing agricultural gender research and propose innovative solutions to create more equitable, just, and resilient agri-food systems.
A Diverse and Comprehensive Program
The conference program is packed with over 140 oral presentations, 85 posters, 25 high-level plenary and keynote speakers, and 60 parallel sessions. International exhibitors & Indian women entrepreneurs will showcase their work and innovations. Delegates will represent a wide range of research institutes, agricultural systems, NGOs, civil society organizations, funding partners, policy-making bodies, and the private sector.
A Collaborative Effort for a Prosperous Future
ICAR, in partnership with CGIAR and other research collaborators, continues to guide and shape the future of India’s 126 million smallholder farmers. The CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform’s goal is to co-create agricultural solutions that work for women and contribute to equitable, resilient, and prosperous societies. This partnership with ICAR offers a unique opportunity to achieve large-scale impact by translating G20 commitments into actionable outcomes for women and men farmers and entire communities.
The international research conference is not just an event; it’s a step forward in the journey toward gender equality and resilient agri-food systems, bringing together experts and visionaries to drive meaningful change in the agricultural sector.
