EU Delegation Visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025 | Sustainable Basmati Rice

Explore the EU delegation visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025, highlighting sustainable Basmati rice research, low carbon practices, and India-EU trade collaborations.

The EU delegation visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025 marked a pivotal moment in India-EU agricultural collaboration, emphasizing sustainable practices, trade negotiations, and advancements in Basmati rice research. Hosted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) on September 12, 2025, this high-profile engagement brought together key policymakers, researchers, and trade officials to discuss strategies that balance people, planet, and profit in agriculture.

The European Union delegation was led by Mr. Christophe Hansen, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, accompanied by Ms. Catherine Combette, Head of Unit, DG Agriculture; Ms. Maud Feuillet, Policy Officer, DG Agriculture; Mr. Pawel Stachowiak, Counsellor, EU Delegation to India; and Akansha Bhushan, Trade Affairs Officer, EU Delegation to India. Indian representatives included Dr. M L Jat, Secretary, DARE and DG (ICAR), Dr. D K Yadava, DDG (Crop Sciences), ICAR, Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, Shri Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA, and senior researchers from ICAR-IARI and the rice industry.

Key Highlights of the EU Delegation Visit

During the visit, Dr. M L Jat emphasized the principle of “people, plant, and profit,” underscoring the role of sustainable Basmati rice production in enhancing farmer incomes while safeguarding environmental resources. He commended the Basmati rice researchers for their remarkable contributions in reducing crop duration and increasing yields.

Key points raised included:

• Periodic updating of Basmati rice varieties to reflect best practices in research, development, and testing.
• Promotion of low carbon rice produced with fewer inputs to reduce environmental impact.
• Ensuring safe Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides to protect human health instead of relying solely on default Codex levels.

The discussions concluded with a vote of thanks, reflecting mutual respect and a commitment to continued collaboration.

EU Perspective on Sustainable Basmati Rice

Mr. Christophe Hansen praised India’s efforts in developing sustainable Basmati rice varieties and highlighted key trade considerations, including:

• Status of Geographical Indication (GI) for Basmati rice
• Inclusion of improved Basmati rice varieties in free trade agreements
• Negotiations on organic products based on mutually agreed equivalence

These discussions aim to strengthen India-EU trade ties, ensuring compliance with EU standards while supporting small-scale Indian farmers.

Agricultural Trade and Policy Discussions

Dr. D K Yadava, DDG (Crop Sciences), ICAR, set the context by briefing the delegation on agenda items:

1. Listing of improved Basmati rice varieties
2. EU regulations regarding pesticide residues
3. Overview of agricultural exports and organic product trade between India and the EU

Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, welcomed the delegates, emphasizing ICAR-IARI’s flagship role in achieving food and nutritional security in India. He highlighted the institute’s contribution to the Green Revolution and ongoing efforts to modernize agricultural practices.

Innovations in Basmati Rice Research

Dr. Gopala Krishnan S, Head of Genetics, presented the latest Basmati rice research, focusing on:

• Improved rice varieties with disease resistance
• Reduced water consumption for sustainable farming
• Higher profitability for farmers through environment-friendly practices

The presentation emphasized the importance of including these improved varieties in the national seed registry under the Seed Act, 1966, which is critical for duty exemptions and international trade.

Export and Policy Perspectives

Shri Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA, provided insights on India’s rice export status, highlighting key issues with the EU:

• Compliance with MRLs for pesticides
• Standards for Basmati rice
• GI status challenges

Dr. Saswati Bose, General for Organic Products (Regulatory), APEDA, discussed the National Policy on Organic Products and ongoing negotiations for a mutually recognized agreement between India and the EU, facilitating smoother trade of organic products.

Field Demonstrations and Practical Insights

The EU delegation also visited Basmati rice fields, witnessing firsthand the demonstration of improved rice varieties developed by ICAR-IARI. The showcase included:

• Short-duration, high-yield rice varieties
• Low carbon cultivation techniques
• Sustainable farming practices benefiting both farmers and the environment

This practical exposure reinforced the delegation’s understanding of India’s scientific advancements in rice production and export readiness.

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Expert Insights and Implications

Agro-economists suggest that India’s efforts to integrate sustainable low carbon rice production with strict pesticide regulations could set a benchmark for global rice exports. According to recent statistics, India accounts for over 50% of global Basmati rice exports, making compliance with EU standards critical for market expansion.

Commentary from Dr. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog:
“India’s collaboration with the EU on Basmati rice sustainability and trade standards demonstrates the potential for harmonized agricultural policies that benefit both producers and consumers.”

The Road Ahead for India-EU Collaboration

The EU delegation visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025 highlighted the importance of:

• Continuous innovation in Basmati rice research
• Adoption of low carbon rice production techniques
• Alignment with international trade standards for organic and conventional rice

Such initiatives are expected to enhance India’s position in the global rice market while promoting sustainable agriculture practices.

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FAQs on EU Delegation Visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025

1. What was the purpose of the EU delegation visit to ICAR-IARI New Delhi 2025?
   The visit aimed to discuss sustainable Basmati rice research, low carbon rice production, and India-EU trade collaborations.
2. Who led the EU delegation to ICAR-IARI?
   The delegation was led by Mr. Christophe Hansen, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food.
3. What are low carbon rice practices?
   Low carbon rice practices focus on sustainable cultivation with reduced inputs and lower environmental impact.
4. Which Basmati rice issues were discussed with the EU?
   Topics included improved rice varieties, GI status, pesticide MRLs, and organic product trade agreements.
5. Who represented India during the visit?
   Key representatives included Dr. M L Jat, Dr. D K Yadava, Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, and Shri Abhishek Dev.
6. Why is periodic updating of Basmati rice varieties important?
   To incorporate best practices in research, testing, and release, benefiting small-scale farmers and consumers.
7. How does ICAR-IARI contribute to India’s food security?
   ICAR-IARI develops improved crop varieties, promotes sustainable agriculture, and enhances nutritional security.
8. What is the significance of pesticide MRL compliance with the EU?
   Compliance ensures safe exports and protects human health while maintaining trade relations.
9. How are organic products traded between India and EU?
   Negotiations focus on mutually recognized standards and agreements for smooth trade.
10. Where can one learn more about Basmati rice research and policies?
    Resources are available through ICAR-IARI publications, NCERT courses, and educational portals.