Experts Unite at IMC Agriculture Conclave 2026: Climate-Smart Farming and Farmer Collectivisation Key to Atmanirbharta

The IMC Agriculture Conclave 2026 brought together experts from various fields to discuss the future of agriculture in India, with a focus on climate-smart farming and farmer collectivisation as key drivers for achieving Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance. The conclave highlighted the need for a holistic approach to agriculture, taking into account the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and the importance of empowering farmers through collective action.

India's agricultural sector is the backbone of the country's economy, providing livelihoods for over 50% of the population. However, the sector is facing numerous challenges, including declining productivity, soil degradation, and water scarcity. The conclave acknowledged that these challenges can only be addressed through a paradigm shift in agricultural practices, embracing innovative and sustainable approaches that prioritize climate resilience and farmer well-being.

Climate-smart farming emerged as a central theme at the conclave, with experts emphasizing the need for agricultural practices that can mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. This includes the use of drought-tolerant crop varieties, conservation agriculture, and agroforestry practices that promote soil health and biodiversity. Farmer collectivisation was also identified as a critical component of climate-resilient agriculture, enabling farmers to pool resources, share knowledge, and negotiate better prices for their produce.

The conclave also delved into the role of technology in transforming India's agricultural landscape. Experts discussed the potential of digital platforms, precision agriculture, and data analytics in enhancing agricultural productivity, reducing costs, and improving decision-making. Furthermore, the importance of investing in agricultural research and development was highlighted, with a focus on developing climate-resilient crop varieties, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable water management practices.

Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance, was a recurring theme throughout the conclave, with experts emphasizing the need for India to reduce its dependence on imported agricultural products and instead focus on developing its own domestic agricultural sector. This requires a multi-faceted approach, involving government support, private sector investment, and community-led initiatives that empower farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The IMC Agriculture Conclave 2026 concluded with a call to action, urging policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations to work together in supporting India's agricultural sector. By promoting climate-smart farming, farmer collectivisation, and innovative agricultural technologies, India can achieve its goal of becoming a self-reliant and food-secure nation, while also contributing to global efforts to address climate change and sustainable development.