The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has urged member states to work collectively to promote regenerative agriculture across South Asia, in a move that could reshape the region’s approach to food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
The call came during a three-day Regional Consultation Meeting on "Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture in SAARC Member States", held virtually from August 4–6, 2025. The event brought together distinguished delegates from six SAARC countries, agricultural research institutions, universities, and international agencies.
According to a release from SAC, the primary aim of the consultation was to foster cooperation and develop strategies to tackle escalating environmental challenges in agriculture. Key topics included the restoration of degraded soils, enhancement of biodiversity, and development of climate-resilient agri-food systems core pillars of regenerative agriculture.
Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, Additional Secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh, inaugurated the consultation as chief guest. In his address, he emphasized the critical need to restore soil health and biodiversity in the region and encouraged the adoption of digital tools and localized solutions for effective implementation. He also called upon SAC to play a leading role in steering this transformation.
Dr Md Harunur Rashid, Director of SAC, chaired the opening session and reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to advancing climate-smart, sustainable, and farmer-centric agricultural systems across South Asia.
Special guest Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat in Nepal, highlighted the economic dimension of regenerative agriculture, saying it not only rejuvenates soil and ecosystems but also enhances farmers’ incomes through improved productivity and cost savings.
Over the three days, more than 20 experts presented in six technical sessions, covering a wide range of topics such as carbon farming, soil microbiome restoration, integrated crop-livestock systems, and agroforestry. Country-specific papers were presented by national experts, showcasing progress and challenges in each SAARC nation.
Observers noted that this initiative marks a significant step toward aligning regional agricultural policies with global sustainability goals. With South Asia facing increasing threats from climate change, land degradation, and declining farm productivity, regenerative agriculture offers a viable path forward for long-term agricultural development.
Experts believe that with political will, research-backed strategies, and cross-border collaboration, the SAARC region has strong potential to become a global model for regenerative agriculture, ensuring food security for over 1.8 billion people.
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