FOOD & AGRICULTURE

USIBC Food & Agriculture member-companies represent every aspect of the farm-to-market supply chain. In an effort to enhance bilateral commercial relations, the committee seeks to promote policy reforms that will lead to greater agricultural productivity and security in India.

The first Green Revolution in the 1960s depended heavily on government resources and intervention to feed a population of less than 500 million. Today, with the same amount of land and amidst climate change and diminishing availability of water, India must feed a population of nearly 1.2 billion.

The technologies, expertise, resources, and leadership for ensuring food security for this growing population can not be provided by the government alone. The business sector, which has spent decades investing in all aspects of the agricultural supply chain, is now ready to supplement the government’s efforts and support India’s goal of achieving food security through an Evergreen Revolution.

PRIORITIES

• Enhance Productivity:  World class technologies, including seeds, farm mechanization, and drip irrigation, can support Indian farmers produce more for a growing population.  Incorporating time and labor saving technologies will support farmers as they seek better yields, higher quality products and remerative prices.
• Improve Efficiency:  Although India is a top producer of fruit, vegetable and dairy products, between 20 and 40 percent of food products rot before reaching market due to supply chain inefficiencies. Introducing cold chain technology, connecting farmers directly to markets, and allowing the entry of global multi-brand retailers with expertise in supply chains will have the dual benefit of reducing consumer costs while increasing farmers' incomes.
• Leverage Global Markets and Products:  As Indian farmers and food processors seek new markets abroad, developing a food safety regime aligned with international best practices will support their ability to reach new consumers.  Consumers within India can benefit by the permanent reduction of market access barriers for agricultural goods, inputs, and implements, particularly those not produced domestically, as prices will fall and a greater variety of products will be introduced to the growing middle class.  Increased market access can also stabilize prices in the face of inflationary pressures or if poor farming conditions within India lead to inadequate food supplies.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information on participating in the Food and Agriculture Executive Committee, please Patrick Hayden and Brandon Banner. 

USIBC's publication, "Unlocking India's Rural Sector: U.S. Industry Contributions" highlights the many ways in which American companies are adding value to India's rural communities and agricultural sector.

USIBC's publication, "Advancing India's Evergreen Revolution" depicts the policy measures that India's central and state governments can pursue to support India's producers, processors, and consumers.