New Delhi (India–Brazil): The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched the second edition of the Brazil–India Cross-Incubation Programme in Agritech, known as Maitri 2.0, on September 22, 2025, at New Delhi. The event was graced by Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, alongside His Excellency Mr. Kenneth Nobrega, Ambassador of Brazil to India, with participation from eminent researchers and innovation leaders from both countries.
A Historic and Strategic Collaboration
Dr. Jat highlighted the nearly eight-decade-old partnership between India and Brazil that remains strong through platforms like BRICS and G20. He underscored the recent MoU between ICAR and EMBRAPA as a monumental step in enhancing collaboration across the agri-food value chain. Reflecting on the evolution of ICAR’s research output, Dr. Jat noted the proliferation of patents from 74 in 1996 to over 1,800 annually, supported by active incubation centers and over 5,000 licensing deals.
Maitri 2.0 as a Hub for Co-Creation and Innovation
Maitri 2.0 is designed as a two-way learning platform to facilitate co-creation between Indian and Brazilian agri-tech innovators. It aims to deepen linkages between incubators, promote joint entrepreneurship, and accelerate innovation diffusion to strengthen resilient and sustainable food systems. The programme fosters knowledge exchange focused on digital technologies, climate-resilient agriculture, and enhanced value chains, gearing towards food and nutritional security.
Institutional and Startup Engagement
Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director of ICAR-IARI, showcased the Indian agritech ecosystem’s capacity with over 400 startups supported, highlighting the transition from name-based to business-oriented agriculture. Dr. Neeru Bhushan emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change challenges, urging a joint response for sustainable intensification of agriculture.
Prospects and Impact
The event reaffirmed India’s and Brazil’s commitment to technological collaboration, policy alignment, and joint research to tackle global agri-food challenges. By bridging innovations from both nations, Maitri 2.0 is poised to benefit farmers, drive inclusive growth, and strengthen the global agri-food innovation ecosystem.
Conclusion: India–Brazil
Maitri 2.0 marks a significant advancement in India-Brazil agri-tech cooperation, embodying the spirit of mutual learning and collaborative innovation. The programme underscores the commitment to foster unprecedented synergy for sustainable agriculture and food security, aligned with both nations’ long-term strategic goals.
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Source: PIB
