On Saturday, August 3, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) in Delhi. In his address, he expressed his delight at hosting the conference in India for the first time in 65 years. He welcomed attendees from various countries, extending greetings on behalf of India’s 120 million farmers, over 30 million female farmers, 30 million fishermen, and 80 million livestock farmers. Modi emphasized that attendees are now in a country with a population of 550 million animals, and warmly welcomed them to a nation that deeply values animal welfare. PM Modi highlighted that India’s agricultural and food practices are as ancient as the country itself. He noted that Indian agricultural traditions prioritize science and logic, with a complete Ayurvedic science dedicated to the medicinal use of food. This traditional knowledge system is an integral part of Indian society. Modi reflected on the last time ICAE was held in India, a period shortly after India gained independence, which was fraught with challenges related to food security and agriculture. He proudly stated that today, India is a food-surplus nation and the largest producer of milk, pulses, and spices.
