**Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Meets Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev to Strengthen Bilateral Agricultural Cooperation**

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan met with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev on Friday to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture. Both officials expressed a strong interest in formalizing the partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

The meeting took place at Krishi Bhawan, where the leaders focused on boosting agricultural trade between India and Russia, particularly by expanding India’s exports of agricultural products to the Russian market.

**Focus on Trade, Exports, and Farmer Welfare**

Chouhan highlighted India’s key priorities in the agricultural sector, which include ensuring food security, increasing farmer incomes, and promoting access to safe and nutritious food. According to a statement from the Agriculture Ministry, he emphasized these points as vital for the nation’s development.

Reflecting on the longstanding relationship between India and Russia, Chouhan invoked the principle of *Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam*—meaning “the world is one family”—to underscore the importance of international collaboration in advancing farmers’ welfare and food security.

**Strengthening Cooperation and Technical Partnerships**

Deputy Prime Minister Patrushev spoke about the robust cooperation existing between the two countries across various sectors, particularly agriculture. He conveyed Russia’s keen interest in deepening agricultural trade ties and expressed enthusiasm for formalizing this partnership through an MoU.

The discussions concentrated on balancing bilateral trade and strengthening technical partnerships. India stressed the need for improved market access for key agricultural products in Russia and conveyed optimism about resolving outstanding trade issues.

Both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in academic exchanges and scholarship opportunities for students. Additionally, they explored joint initiatives in seed traceability systems aimed at promoting innovation and technology-driven agricultural solutions.

**Context of the Visit**

Dmitry Patrushev is currently visiting India as part of the preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India in December.

*Published on September 27, 2025.*
https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/india-russia-explore-mou-to-boost-agricultural-trade-and-technology-collaboration/article70100818.ece