Former Union Minister Mr Suresh Prabhu appointed as ICFA Chairman

Former Union Minister, Mr Suresh Prabhu, appointed as ICFA Chairman

New Delhi – The Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture is pleased to announce the appointment of former Union Minister Suresh Prabhu as the new Chairman. Mr Suresh Prabhu, Board Member, World Agriculture Forum and former Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Railways, Power, Chemicals & Fertilizers, and Environment & Forest, is nominated as the Chairman by the newly constituted 24 Members ICFA Board. Shri Prabhu, a distinguished statesman, diplomat, and administrator with decades of experience in public service, brings his vision for transparent, growth-oriented governance to ICFA.

“His extensive experience in global arena, having served on several UN bodies, and as India’s Sherpa for G- 7 and G-20 countries, Prabhu is set to lead ICFA in its mission to promote agro trade, technology and investments in agriculture, and promoting food and agri ecosystem in India by expanding ICFA presence globally through collaborations and partnerships”, said the outgoing chairman, Dr. MJ Khan, while adding that “Mr. Prabhu’s contributions have been pivotal in shaping policies that fostered growth in various sectors, including agriculture. Prabhu’s vision for the future of agriculture aligns with ICFA’s goals of promoting climate-resilient sustainable agriculture practices towards unleashing the potential of Indian agriculture and empowering farmers”.

In his new role, Prabhu aims to help the farmers leverage market opportunities as well as promote innovative agricultural technologies, policy research and advocacy and agribusinesses, agro trade and global engagement. Dr. Khan added that India’s first Agri Exports Policy was launched under Mr. Prabhu’s leadership in 2018, which resulted into unprecedented growth of agri exports from 15 million MT in 2018 to 38 million MT in 2022. His commitment to work collaboratively with stakeholders across the agricultural value chain to create a more resilient food system in India would go a long way to build a robust ecosystem for agriculture and boost farmers income.

His leadership will be pivotal in advancing the Chamber’s agenda of creating opportunities for the agricultural sector, with a strong focus on farmer welfare, digital technological advancement, and global competitiveness. During his first interaction with the newly constituted ICFA Board, Shri Prabhu outlined his vision for transforming India’s agricultural landscape, with a goal of fostering a more prosperous farming community. He emphasized that ICFA will prioritize the development of solutions that enhance farm income, productivity, and sustainability while addressing the challenges posed by the climate change, and rapidly evolving global markets.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suresh Prabhu said, “I am honored to take on the role of Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture. I believe that by harnessing innovation, collaborating across stakeholders, and focusing on policies that benefit both farmers and the entire food and agriculture value chain, we can transform India into a global leader in agriculture and food security. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to realize this vision.”

Commenting on his nomination, Mr. Prabhu said “I am honored to take on this role at a time when the agricultural sector faces both, the huge opportunities and grave challenges. Together, we can harness technology, improve infra and supply chains, and ensure that our farmers receive fair compensation for their produce,” while adding that his focus will be to bring best global agriculture practices and greater market access to the advantage of Indian farmers through worldwide partnerships

Dr. Tarun Shridhar, former Secretary, Animal Husbandry & Dairy, Government of India has taken over as the new Director General, ICFA. Dr. Shridhar brings in experience of 40 years working in different positions in the State Government and Centre, including as Joint Secretary Fisheries, and as Member, CAT. Dr. Shridhar is known for his thought leadership to the sector, authoring policy papers and articles. Mr. Prabhu exuded confidence that with Dr. Shridhar heading ICFA as DG, we will be able to work strongly on policy issues and agenda, and position ICFA as global agriculture knowledge organization.

The Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture looks forward to Suresh Prabhu’s leadership and expertise as it continues to champion the interests of the agricultural sector and contribute significantly to India’s economic growth and food security. “ICFA, through its network of working groups, councils, and strategic collaborations, is committed to positioning India’s agriculture sector at the forefront of global food security and sustainability initiatives” said Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Co-Chair, ICFA Board, adding that the Chamber’s vision aligns with Shri Prabhu’s focus on making Indian agriculture globally competitive and capable of producing high-quality food products for both domestic and international markets.