SAARC Virtual Consultation Spotlights Soil and Sustainability
A three-day virtual regional consultation titled “Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture Practices in SAARC Member States” commenced on Monday, August 4, under the initiative of the SAARC Agriculture Centre. The consultation will continue through Wednesday, August 6.
The event brings together representatives from SAARC member states, agricultural research institutes, universities, and international organizations. Its central objective is to enhance regional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and policy coordination to address soil degradation, enhance biodiversity, and promote climate-resilient agri-food systems across South Asia.
Abdul Motaleb Sarkar, Additional Foreign Secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh, attended the opening session as the chief guest. He stated, “The promotion of regenerative agriculture practices in South Asia is the need of the hour. Through soil restoration, digital innovation, and pragmatic strategies, this transformation is achievable. The SAARC Agriculture Centre must take the lead in this initiative, which will also support biodiversity conservation.”
The event was chaired by Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid, Director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre, who delivered the welcome address. He said, “The SAARC Agriculture Centre is relentlessly working to promote sustainable and innovative agricultural practices across South Asia. Regenerative agriculture not only addresses environmental challenges but also ensures long-term productivity and stability in agricultural systems.”
Tanvir Ahmed Torofdar, Director (ARD and SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat in Nepal, attended as a special guest. In his remarks, he noted, “Regenerative agriculture improves both environmental health and soil fertility, while also being economically beneficial for farmers. Regional cooperation and partnerships are key to scaling up these practices.”
Technical presentations were delivered by Dr. Debasish Chakraborty, Senior Scientist and Cropping System Agronomist at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) Bangladesh, and Dr. Sikandar Khan Tanvir, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) at SAARC Agriculture Centre. Dr. Chakraborty spoke on “Regenerative Agriculture: Restoring Earth’s Balance through Soil, Science, and Stewardship,” while Dr. Tanvir outlined the purpose and structure of the consultation.
On the first day, nominated scientists and focal point representatives from SAARC member countries presented country-specific reports, highlighting the current status, challenges, and future plans related to regenerative agriculture in their respective nations.
