Daily News Analysis

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

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Recently, the Government of India highlighted the country’s pioneering achievements in rural transformation and development leadership at the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – India Day event, which was held in Rome, Italy. The event showcased India’s experiences and best practices in agricultural development, poverty alleviation, and rural empowerment.

About the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized agency of the United Nations. It was established in 1977 as an international financial institution through a United Nations General Assembly Resolution.

Objective and Mandate

The primary objective of IFAD is to eradicate poverty and hunger in rural areas of developing countries. The organisation focuses on empowering rural communities to enhance their food security and improve the nutrition and livelihoods of rural families.

Areas of Operation

IFAD implements its projects and programmes in remote and environmentally fragile regions, including:

  • Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and

  • Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

These interventions aim to reach the most vulnerable rural populations.

Key Functions and Support Mechanisms

IFAD supports:

  • Research and innovation,

  • Institutional reforms, and

  • Pro-poor and climate-resilient technologies.

It extends two types of grants based on the nature and scale of interventions:

  1. Global or regional grants, and

  2. Country-specific grants.

Membership

IFAD currently has 180 Member States, including India, which is a founding member of the organisation. This reflects India’s long-standing engagement in global efforts toward rural development and food security.

Governance Structure

The Governing Council is the highest decision-making body of IFAD. It meets once every three years to take major policy and strategic decisions regarding the organisation’s functioning and priorities.

UN System Linkages

IFAD is a member of the United Nations Development Group (UNDG), enabling coordinated action with other UN agencies working on sustainable development goals, particularly those related to poverty alleviation and agriculture.

Headquarters

The headquarters of IFAD is located in Rome, Italy.

Conclusion

IFAD plays a crucial role in promoting inclusive and sustainable rural development across the developing world. India’s active participation and leadership at the IFAD India Day event underline its commitment to sharing development experiences and strengthening global cooperation in agriculture and rural transformation.


 

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