HarvestPlus Solutions (HPS) has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Yara India, a subsidiary of Yara International, a global crop nutrition company. HarvestPlus intends to seamlessly incorporate nutrient-rich seeds and foods into global agricultural systems, empowering vulnerable communities to boost their intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
Together they intend to successfully implement the project ‘Establishing Nutri-Farms with Smallholder Farmers in India.’ To kickstart this approach, a pilot programme is underway, integrating 500 farmers in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh into the Zinc Wheat value chain. Primarily, the project wants to evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, and impact of the approach, with the ultimate aim of expanding its reach to benefit a larger number of farmers and communities in the future.
You may also like to read: International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources to add more seed varieties to ‘food basket’
The partnership seeks to transform food systems through a focus on delivering nutritious food to all individuals, with a special emphasis on vulnerable communities. The project employs an approach that combines the use of biofortified seeds with capacity strengthening of farmers in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), including efficient nutrient management. This approach aims to enhance farm productivity and bolster farmers’ resilience toward food and nutrition security.
In ensuring a sustainable supply chain, the project facilitates the connection of farmers to relevant markets, enabling them to access businesses in the biofortified value chain. This contributes to improved food quality and positively impacts the income and livelihoods of farmers. Additionally, the project fosters collaboration with public sector stakeholders to create an enabling environment for the adoption of nutrition-smart agricultural techniques.
You may also like to read: ICRISAT joins hands with Assam Millet Mission to boost millet production
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjiv Kanwar, Managing Director, Yara South Asia said, “We are delighted to collaborate with HarvestPlus Solutions on a transformative journey towards nutritional security, focusing on sustainable solutions to shape a nature-positive food future. Our partnership focuses on enhancing farm productivity, improving food quality, uplifting farmer livelihoods and revolutionising food systems for a healthier and more resilient future.”
Ravinder Grover, Regional Coordinator – Asia, HarvestPlus said, “We are excited to join hands with Yara India to set up nutrition-smart farms in India. By combining our expertise, we aim to introduce innovative bundles that promote sustainable farming practices and enhance crop nutrition and yield. This collaboration stands as a testament to our shared dedication to building a healthier, more resilient future for communities around the world.”
