India is hosting the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems 2026 in New Delhi from March 12–14 to promote women’s leadership, equality, and innovation in agriculture. The event brings together global policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and farmers to strengthen women’s role across agri-food systems.
The three-day event is taking place at the ICAR Convention Centre in New Delhi and is being organised by agricultural institutions in collaboration with global partners. The conference aims to highlight the critical role women play across the agri-food value chain and identify policies that can strengthen their participation and economic empowerment
Focus on Empowering Women Farmers
Women play a crucial role in global food production. Yet they often face barriers in access to land, technology, finance, and decision-making platforms. The conference seeks to address these challenges and explore strategies for gender-responsive agricultural development.
Dr. M. L. Jat, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Researchh (ICAR) and Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, said the conference will promote gender-responsive policymaking and inclusive agricultural growth. He emphasised that empowering women farmers is essential for strengthening food systems and improving rural livelihoods.
The conference theme, “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights,” reflects the growing recognition that women’s leadership can transform agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and improved productivity. Experts believe that ensuring women’s equal participation can significantly enhance food security and rural economic development worldwide.
Global Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration
The event will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders including scientists, government officials, development organisations, women entrepreneurs, and farmers. The discussions will focus on practical solutions that can be scaled across countries.
Participants will share case studies of successful initiatives that have improved women’s access to agricultural technology, markets, and financial services. The conference will also highlight innovations in digital agriculture, climate-resilient farming, and sustainable food systems that can empower women farmers.
Experts believe that creating networks between researchers, policymakers, and rural communities will accelerate the adoption of best practices. Such collaboration can help bridge the gender gap in agricultural productivity and increase the resilience of global food systems.
India’s Leadership in Agricultural Innovation
India hosting the conference reflects its growing role in shaping global conversations on agricultural development. The country has implemented several initiatives aimed at supporting women farmers, improving rural incomes, and promoting inclusive growth in agriculture.
President Droupadi Murmu is expected to inaugurate the conference, highlighting the importance of women’s leadership in agriculture and rural development. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will also attend the event and address participants on India’s efforts to strengthen agricultural systems and empower rural communities.
Experts say India’s agricultural ecosystem offers valuable lessons for other countries, especially in promoting community-based farming models and expanding access to technology for small farmers.
Strengthening the Future of Global Food Systems
The conference takes place at a time when the global community is confronting increasing challenges related to food security, climate change, and the sustainability of rural livelihoods. In this context, empowering women is widely recognised as a vital pathway to addressing these interconnected issues.
Across many developing countries, women make up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce. However, their participation in leadership and decision making within agri food systems remains limited. Bridging this gap has the potential to enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen household nutrition, and support more inclusive rural development.
The discussions at the conference are expected to generate policy insights and collaborative initiatives aimed at expanding women’s role across global agri food systems. Experts suggest that such platforms can help advance more inclusive and sustainable agricultural practices.
As the conference continues in New Delhi, policymakers and development leaders will focus on translating dialogue into meaningful action. Strengthening women’s participation in agriculture is not only essential for advancing equality but also critical for building resilient and sustainable food systems for the future
Clear Cut Research, Climate Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: March 14, 2026 09:00 IST
Written By: Ayushman Meena
