The initiative , titled the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening ( UP-AGREES ) Project , aims to boost the incomes of one million farmers by enhancing crop productivity , adopting climate-resilient practices , and strengthening market access . The project also seeks to attract $ 15 million in private investment .

Despite being a leader in wheat production and a top exporter of agricultural products , UP faces challenges , particularly for small farmers . Limited access to modern technologies , low productivity , and inadequate post-harvest infrastructure continue to hinder growth and profitability in the sector .

“ The project will promote sustainable practices such as low-methane rice varieties , rice residue collection and conversion into biogas , and optimised fertiliser use , reducing agriculture ’ s impact on climate change and boosting productivity ,” said Auguste Tano Kouame , the World Bank ’ s Country Director for India .

The UP-AGREES Project will also tackle these issues by improving agricultural value chains , expanding financial

The partnership between China and Zimbabwe in the agricultural sector last year has achieved notable strides , positively impacting Zimbabwe ’ s economy . Agriculture remains a key pillar for the country , with over 60 per cent of the population reliant on it , as it contributes 15 per cent to Zimbabwe ’ s Gross domestic product ( GDP ).

One of the year ’ s significant developments came in September 2024 , when the two nations signed a trade protocol during Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa ’ s State visit to China . This protocol enabled the export of Zimbabwean avocados to China , giving farmers like Rodwell Choto from Bindura new opportunities . access , and encouraging valueadded practices .

Innovative credit tools like the electronic Kisan Credit Card ( eKCC ) will provide farmers with affordable and transparent financing options .

A dedicated centre will also be established to train government officials and farmers in climate adaptation techniques . Furthermore , the project will support geographic clusters for commodities and fisheries and an agri-export hub near Jewar Airport in Greater Noida .

According to task team leaders Vinayak Ghatate , Andrew

Choto anticipates increased foreign currency and improved livelihoods as demand from China grows . Zimbabwe ’ s avocado production is set to hit a record 6,000 metric tons this year , and the country plans to expand its production areas .

Meanwhile , Zimbabwe ’ s tobacco industry has also flourished , with exports to China rising by 38.3 per cent in 2024 . Now , they account for nearly 41 per cent of Zimbabwe ’ s total exports to China .

However , the year wasn ’ t without challenges . A severe drought caused crop failures and livestock losses . To help combat this , China has funded the drilling of 300 boreholes across Zimbabwe to provide water to

Goodland , and Harsh Jhanjaria : “ The Project will especially work with women farmers and entrepreneurs for adoption of climate-resilient and cutting-edge digital technologies , enhancing farmgate infrastructure , and strengthening market linkages both locally and globally .”

The project will draw on resources from international partners , including France , Israel , and the Gates Foundation . It will be financed by the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development ( IBRD ) under a 33.5-year loan , including a six-year grace period .

drought-affected areas , improving resilience and safeguarding livestock .

Alongside these initiatives , China has been supporting human resource development . Zimbabwean officials have attended seminars in China , where they ’ ve learned about modern agricultural practices and sustainable technologies .

This collaboration is helping Zimbabwean professionals adopt new skills and technologies that boost agricultural productivity .

Meanwhile , the China- Zimbabwe agricultural cooperation continues to grow , offering hope for economic growth and improved livelihoods for Zimbabwe ’ s farmers .

PAKISTAN ’ S Planning Minister , Professor Ahsan Iqbal ( pic ), initiated the 7th Agriculture Census in December last year , emphasising its pivotal role in addressing future food security challenges through precise data-driven policies .

Iqbal highlighted the country ’ s growing population as a pressing concern , projecting that the current population of 240 million could surge to 620 million by 2047 if the 2.55 per cent growth rate persists .

He urged the need for a robust agricultural strategy based on accurate data to mitigate potential food shortages in the future .

“ That is why the planning ministry places great importance on accurate data collection . If there is wrong reporting ( in compiling statistics ), it will lead to wrong policies ,” Iqbal stated , stressing the importance of leveraging digital tools to ensure reliable information gathering .

This census marks a transformative step for the agriculture sector , which is regarded as a cornerstone of Pakistan ’ s economy .

According to Iqbal , the findings , expected by August 2025 , will provide a foundation for much-needed reforms and efficient resource management .

The data will cover crucial aspects such as crop patterns , livestock statistics , and the use of modern machinery , enabling targeted efforts to enhance productivity and sustainability .

For the first time , all agriculturerelated elements - including crops , machinery , and livestock - have been integrated into a single , comprehensive census .

Advanced technologies , such as a centralised digital dashboard , will streamline data collection and analysis , ensuring actionable insights for the sector ’ s development .

Iqbal also acknowledged the contributions of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics ( PBS ) and provincial authorities , commending their efforts in executing this ambitious initiative .

He expressed confidence that the census would guide interventions aimed at fostering self-reliance and long-term growth in agriculture .