The first global conference on farmers' rights will take place in Delhi

In Delhi, the first global conference on farmers' rights will take place, inaugurated by the President. President Draupadi Murmu will inaugurate the conference on farmers' rights at the Pusa campus here today. Murmu will also unveil the Plant Varieties Authority Center and confer awards on six farmer communities and 20 individual farmers for their efforts in conserving agricultural biodiversity. The Chairman of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPV&FRA), Trilochan Mahapatra, told reporters that this four-day conference, scheduled until September 15, is being organized for the first time after adopting the International Treaty in 2001 on plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

He said that apart from providing access to 64 crops in the multilateral system for research, breeding, and training for food and agriculture, the treaty also recognizes the contributions of local and indigenous farmers in conserving and developing plant genetic resources.

Mahapatra emphasized the importance of plant genetic resources in addressing the current challenges of climate change. In this context, the conference will deliberate on the challenges and opportunities of implementing farmers' rights by contracting parties and interested stakeholders.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the International Treaty Secretariat on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, and the Government of India are jointly organizing the global conference, with participation expected from approximately 500 representatives from India and abroad.
The conference will also involve farmers, agricultural organizations, scientists, and other stakeholders. Additionally, an exhibition showcasing India's plant genetic resources and agricultural biodiversity will be organized during the event.