India and Afghanistan have decided to strengthen their agricultural partnership by forming a joint working group to expand cooperation in farming, irrigation, livestock and agricultural research. The decision came during bilateral talks between Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Afghanistan’s Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, Mawlawi Ataullah Omari, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The proposed joint working group will create a regular platform for both countries to stay engaged on agricultural matters and identify new areas of cooperation based on their shared priorities. According to a release issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, the initiative will help both sides work closely on issues related to agriculture, research, technology and capacity building.

During the meeting, the Afghan delegation requested India’s support to improve wheat productivity in the country. It sought assistance through advanced seed technologies and research collaboration. In response, Chouhan assured Afghanistan of India’s support in strengthening its agricultural sector. He said India is ready to provide quality wheat, maize and potato seeds. He also offered climate-resilient and biofortified crop varieties to help improve crop production. Along with seeds, India will share the scientific expertise of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to support agricultural development in Afghanistan.

The discussions also focused on water management and climate-resilient agriculture. Afghanistan requested India’s cooperation in irrigation, water harvesting and watershed development to address water scarcity and the growing impact of climate change. Chouhan responded by offering to share India’s experience in modern water management practices. He said India is willing to extend support in micro-irrigation, rainwater harvesting, farm ponds, check dams and efficient water-use technologies. These measures can help improve water conservation and increase agricultural productivity.

The ministers also discussed expanding cooperation in agricultural research, education and capacity building. Both sides explored ways to strengthen knowledge sharing and develop skills in the agricultural sector. The proposed collaboration aims to improve farming practices through research, training and technical support.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Chouhan highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two countries. He said India and Afghanistan shared “very old and historic relations” and held “very friendly” discussions on deepening agricultural ties.

The meeting reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation in agriculture and related sectors. The proposed joint working group will provide an institutional mechanism to maintain regular dialogue and identify practical areas for future collaboration. The partnership is expected to support agricultural development through the exchange of technology, research and technical expertise. It also aims to promote sustainable farming practices and improve water management in Afghanistan with support from India’s experience and scientific institutions.