Food Systems Strengthening for Sustainable Development Experts
- A regional policy dialog in New Delhi highlighted the need for robust food systems to address challenges in South Asia, with a focus on sustainability and population needs.
- Experts convened in New Delhi on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, for a high-level regional policy dialogue titled "Food Policy for a changing World: lessons and Priorities for South...
- Participants at the dialogue emphasized the critical need to bolster food systems to meet the demands of a growing population while together addressing environmental concerns and promoting economic...
Experts Emphasize Strengthening food Systems for Lasting Progress in South Asia
Table of Contents
A regional policy dialog in New Delhi highlighted the need for robust food systems to address challenges in South Asia, with a focus on sustainability and population needs.
Published September 17, 2025, at 13:25:36
Overview
Experts convened in New Delhi on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, for a high-level regional policy dialogue titled “Food Policy for a changing World: lessons and Priorities for South Asia.” The dialogue, hosted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), focused on strengthening food systems to ensure sustainable development in the region, given the meaningful population size and evolving challenges.
Key Discussions and Recommendations
Participants at the dialogue emphasized the critical need to bolster food systems to meet the demands of a growing population while together addressing environmental concerns and promoting economic stability. Specific areas of focus included improving agricultural productivity, enhancing market access for smallholder farmers, and reducing food loss and waste.
The dialogue also addressed the importance of climate-resilient agriculture, recognizing the vulnerability of South Asian food systems to climate change impacts such as droughts, floods, and extreme weather events. Experts advocated for investments in research and development to develop climate-smart agricultural practices and technologies.
Furthermore, the discussion highlighted the need for regional cooperation to address transboundary food security challenges, such as trade disruptions and the spread of plant and animal diseases. Strengthening regional trade agreements and establishing early warning systems for food crises were identified as key priorities.
The Role of IFPRI
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) played a central role in organizing and facilitating the dialogue. IFPRI is a leading research institution dedicated to reducing hunger and poverty through evidence-based policy solutions. The institute provides research and analysis to policymakers,development practitioners,and other stakeholders to inform decision-making on food security and agricultural development.
Regional Context: South Asia’s food Security Challenges
South Asia faces unique challenges to food security, including a high population density, limited land and water resources, and a high prevalence of poverty. Climate change is exacerbating these challenges, leading to more frequent and severe droughts and floods. according to the World Bank, approximately 30% of South Asia’s population lives below the poverty line, making them particularly vulnerable to food