New Delhi (IANS) Praising India's rich knowledge in agriculture, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Sunday said India is a key player in helping the US achieve global food security and end hunger.
"President Obama and I had a signature issue - food security and ending hunger. India is well placed to help us (achieve it)," Clinton said at the National Agricultural Science Centre that is part of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) here.
"The problem of chronic hunger and malnutrition is a huge issue. (Currently) one billion people are hungry in the world. It can undermine peace and instability can follow. We believe that world has the resources to feed all people.
"I am delighted to be in this prestigious institute and partner India in agriculture. India's experience in agriculture is unsurpassable. With only three percent of the land area, it feeds 17 percent of (global) people. India's leadership is crucial," she added
She said the US administration is happy to partner India in agriculture.
"Agriculture is a pillar of our five pillar discussion (with India). We want to expand our partnership to produce better seeds, grains, farm technology. There is no limit to new explorations in agriculture with India. I am committed to this effort," Ms. Clinton said while alluding to the US role in spurring a green revolution in India in the 1960s that was marked by the introduction of high-yield seed varieties leading to enhanced farm productivity.
She said bio-energy, bio-security, bio-diversity are key areas. The effort is to "end hunger". She also said that India can play a great role in food processing industry.
Ms. Clinton was received at the institute by Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar. Enhanced cooperation in agriculture will be one of the areas of discussions between Clinton and External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Monday.
No comments:
Post a Comment