Empowering Farmers Through Diversification: Insights from CIMMYT Symposium at ICAE 2024
The International Conference on Agricultural Economics (ICAE) 2024 in New Delhi was host to a critical symposium organized by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), Bangladesh. The focus was clear: addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers in the Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP) a region stricken by high rural poverty yet abundant in agricultural potential.
The symposium, set the stage for a series of presentations that delved into the intricacies of agricultural diversification in South Asia. With over 1,400 farmers surveyed from Bangladesh, West Bengal, and Nepal, the findings presented painted a detailed picture of the barriers and opportunities in regional farming practices.
One striking revelation came from the disparities in crop diversification. While areas like West Bengal and Nepal saw a slightly more diversified agriculture, the dominance of cereals in Bangladesh was noted as a significant hindrance to economic growth. Dr. Nandi highlighted how diversification, beyond just cereals, is crucial for enhancing farmer incomes and ensuring food security.
The discussion turned practical with insights into how informal farmer clusters, despite lacking government support, succeeded in cultivating high-value crops, thus creating micro-economies of scale. Wakilur Rahman’s case studies from these clusters provided evidence that when farmers unite, their collective bargaining power and access to markets improve dramatically.
Hasneen Jahan’s study emphasized the varied livelihood strategies across the EGP. It was clear that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work; instead, tailored strategies that align with local socio-economic and ecological conditions are necessary.
The symposium concluded on a forward-thinking note by Maria Fay Rola-Rubzen, who introduced a novel approach using behavioral science to enhance the adoption of sustainable farming technologies. Her findings suggested that strategic message reinforcement could significantly increase the adoption rates of conservation agriculture.
Dr. Wais Kabir chair of the symposium emphasized, advocating for policies that support these insights, aiming to transform farming from subsistence to a sustainable and profitable venture. The session not only provided a deep dive into the challenges of traditional farming practices but also offered a beacon of hope through innovative, community-driven solutions that could pave the way for a greener, more prosperous agricultural future in South Asia.