India and Brazil strengthen agri-innovation partnership

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched the second edition of the Brazil–India Cross-Incubation Programme in Agritech, called Maitri 2.0. The launch took place in New Delhi in the presence of Dr M. L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), and H.E. Mr. Kenneth Nobrega, Ambassador of Brazil to India, along with senior officials and research leaders.

Dr. Jat recalled the 77-year-long India–Brazil partnership. He highlighted their collaboration in platforms such as BRICS and G20. He termed the ICAR–EMBRAPA MoU a milestone for cooperation across the agri-food value chain. Dr. Jat noted ICAR’s growth from 74 patents in 1996 to over 1,800 patents annually today. He pointed to 5,000+ licensing agreements and said innovation must reach end-users. He described Maitri 2.0 as a two-way learning platform for Indian and Brazilian innovators. He reaffirmed ICAR’s commitment to building an innovative and inclusive agri-food ecosystem for global food security.

Ambassador Nobrega praised ICAR’s initiative. He stressed the importance of linking the agritech ecosystems of India and Brazil. He said Maitri 2.0 reflects the wider Brazil–India strategic partnership and supports cooperation in agriculture, technology, and food security.
Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR–IARI, said ICAR–IARI has supported more than 400 agri-startups. He emphasized that agriculture must serve both as a livelihood and as a business. Dr. Neeru Bhushan, ADG (IPTM), welcomed the Brazilian delegation and spoke about common challenges like climate change, food security, and sustainable farming.

Dr. Vishwanathan Srinivasan, JD, ICAR–IARI, delivered the vote of thanks. He acknowledged the joint efforts of ICAR and the Embassy of Brazil. Maitri 2.0 will connect startups, innovators, and research institutions from both countries. The programme will build resilient food systems, empower farmers, and open new opportunities in sustainable agriculture, digital technologies, and value-chain development.

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