A major international gathering focusing on the empowerment of women in agriculture began today in New Delhi as the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS–2026) opened at the ICAR Convention Centre. Organised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the three-day conference from 12 to 14 March 2026 aims to spotlight the role of women in transforming agriculture and ensuring sustainable food systems worldwide. 

Held at the Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Hall in the National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex, the conference brings together experts, policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs and women farmers from across the globe. The event is also being held during the United Nations-declared International Year of Women Farmers 2026, adding global significance to the discussions.

President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates the Conference

The conference was formally inaugurated today by President Droupadi Murmu, who emphasised the importance of gender equality in achieving global development goals. In her address, the President highlighted that women make up nearly half of the world’s population, yet their representation in leadership and decision-making roles often remains limited. She stressed that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires equal participation of women in all sectors, especially agriculture. According to her, the agricultural sector cannot reach its full potential unless women are given greater opportunities to lead, innovate and participate in policy decisions. President Murmu noted that women are already deeply involved in agricultural activities—from farming and seed preservation to agribusiness and research—but their contributions often remain invisible in formal structures.

High-Level Leadership and National Participation

The conference has drawn high-level participation from leaders across the agricultural and policy sectors. Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan attended the inaugural session as the Guest of Honour. The valedictory session on March 14 will be addressed by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi. The event is expected to bring together around 500–700 participants from India and abroad. These include scientists, policymakers, representatives of international organisations, industry leaders, start-ups, development professionals, non-governmental organisations and farmer organisations. The presence of successful women farmers alongside global researchers highlights the conference’s focus on bridging the gap between policy discussions and grassroots realities.

A Global Collaboration for Agricultural Transformation

The conference is being organised through a collaborative effort between several key institutions. Along with ICAR, the event is jointly organised by the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS), the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) and the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA). More than fifteen national and international organisations are participating as co-organisers and knowledge partners. The conference programme is guided by leading experts including Dr Raj S. Paroda, Chairman of TAAS, and Dr M. L. Jat, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of ICAR. Such collaboration reflects the growing recognition that strengthening agri-food systems requires global partnerships and shared knowledge.

Theme: Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights

The theme of the conference, “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights,” highlights the global effort to empower women farmers and increase their participation in agricultural innovation and decision-making. Several technical sessions over the next three days will focus on key issues such as: Gender equality in agricultural policies Economic empowerment through agri-entrepreneurship Women’s participation in value chains Climate-smart agriculture and technology adoption Leadership opportunities for women in agricultural institutions Experts believe that empowering women farmers can significantly improve food security, rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability.

Why Women Matter in Agriculture

Women play a crucial role in agriculture worldwide. In many rural communities, they are involved in activities such as seed selection, crop cultivation, livestock management, food processing and marketing. Despite their contributions, women farmers often face challenges including limited access to land ownership, financial resources, training and leadership opportunities. By addressing these gaps, experts believe agriculture can become more productive, inclusive and sustainable. 

The United Nations’ declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Women Farmers aims to accelerate global efforts toward recognising and strengthening women’s role in agriculture. By bringing together voices from research labs, government offices and village farms, the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems seeks to ensure that women are not only participants in agriculture but also leaders shaping the future of global food systems.