The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), unveiled the 2025 Global Food Policy Report (GFPR) for South Asia during a high-level regional dialogue titled “Food Policy for a Changing World”.
The event brought together policymakers, researchers, and development partners to address the urgent need for resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems in the face of climate change, malnutrition, and demographic shifts.
Professor S. Mahendra Dev, Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, emphasized the importance of affordable and diversified diets, urging collaboration between governments and the private sector. NITI Aayog’s Dr. Vinod K. Paul stressed early nutritional interventions, saying action must begin before pregnancy to break the cycle of malnutrition.
Odisha’s progress was spotlighted by Anu Garg, DC–cum–ACS, who highlighted the state’s transformation from starvation-prone districts to becoming India’s fifth-largest rice producer. Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee added that Odisha is integrating climate and gender responsiveness into agricultural planning through dedicated cells.
The dialogue also featured insights from UNDP and IFPRI leaders, who called for combining innovation with traditional knowledge and strengthening regional cooperation. The launch marks IFPRI’s 50-year journey and sets the tone for future food policy strategies in South Asia.
