STRENGTHENING INDIA’S FOOD SYSTEMS THROUGH RESEARCH AND POLICY COLLABORATION

Shri Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, visited the International Food Policy Research Institute's (IFPRI) headquarters in Washington, DC, for a series of high-level engagements, including a panel discussion and a roundtable with senior IFPRI researchers.

The discussions focused on global experiences and emerging policy priorities related to food subsidy reforms, strengthening public distribution systems, and improving the efficiency of large-scale social protection programs. Deliberations also explored key India-focused themes, including foodgrain procurement, storage and movement systems, implementation of the National Food Security Act, and the evolving challenges facing India’s food systems.

The engagements highlighted the importance of closer collaboration between policymakers and researchers, evidence-based approaches to subsidy restructuring, and greater integration of food security, nutrition, and social protection objectives within public policy frameworks.

The visit further strengthened collaboration between the Government of India and IFPRI, while showcasing India’s leadership and experience in managing one of the world’s largest food distribution systems. Discussions also identified promising areas for future collaboration focused on advancing research, innovation, and policy reforms to support resilient and inclusive food systems.

Learn more about the engagement here.