Why in news?
During World Food Day 2025 on 16 October, India and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) celebrated 80 years of partnership. Indian officials highlighted the country’s journey from a food‑deficit nation to a net food exporter and thanked the FAO for its expertise and support in improving nutrition and agricultural productivity.
Background
The Food and Agriculture Organization is the oldest permanent specialised agency of the United Nations. It was established in October 1945 with the objective of eliminating hunger and improving nutrition and living standards by boosting agricultural productivity. Headquartered in Rome, Italy, the FAO now has 195 members – 194 countries plus the European Union – and works in more than 130 countries. Its mission is to achieve food security for all so that people have regular access to sufficient high‑quality food.
What does FAO do?
- Global forum: FAO provides a neutral platform where both developed and developing countries can negotiate agreements on agriculture, fisheries and forestry. It coordinates the efforts of governments and technical agencies to develop sustainable agrifood systems.
- Technical support: The organisation carries out research, collects data on agricultural production and trade, and provides technical assistance through projects, training centres and publications.
- Governance: Every two years, the FAO Conference brings together all members to set policy and approve the budget. Between conferences, a 49‑member Council serves as the executive body.
- Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals: FAO’s programmes support the UN’s 2030 Agenda by promoting better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all.
India and FAO
India was a founding member of FAO in 1945 and has benefitted from the organisation’s support in areas such as agricultural research, water management and nutrition programmes. Indian officials attribute the success of initiatives like the Green Revolution and National Food Security Act partly to FAO’s guidance and global knowledge sharing. Today, India collaborates with FAO on climate‑resilient agriculture, sustainable fisheries and improving value chains for farmers.
Source: Press Information Bureau · United Nations Regional Information Centre · Encyclopædia Britannica