India Hosts Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026) in New Delhi

India organised the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026) from 12–14 March 2026 in New Delhi. The conference was held at the Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Hall, ICAR Convention Centre, NASC Complex.

The event gained attention because it focused on the important role of women in agriculture and food systems. It also supported global efforts to promote gender equality in agriculture.

The conference was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan attended the inaugural session.
The valedictory session was addressed by Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi.

The event was jointly organised by:

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
• Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS)
• Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR)
• Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA)

The conference theme was “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights.”

Around 700 participants from different countries attended. These included:

• Scientists
• Policymakers
• Women farmers
• Entrepreneurs
• Start-ups
• Students

Major discussions focused on:

• Women entrepreneurship in agriculture
• Gender-responsive agricultural policies
• Climate-smart agriculture technologies
• Financial inclusion for women farmers

The conference was also organised during the United Nations declared International Year of Women Farmers (2026).

The expected outcome is the creation of policy recommendations, best practices and global cooperation frameworks to promote inclusive and sustainable agri-food systems.

🎯 Exam Preparation Section

🔑 Key Points

• GCWAS-2026 held in New Delhi from 12–14 March 2026
• Venue: ICAR Convention Centre, NASC Complex
• Inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu
• Theme: Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights
• Around 700 global participants attended
• Focus on women empowerment in agriculture
• Organised by ICAR, TAAS, CGIAR and PPV&FRA
• Linked with UN International Year of Women Farmers 2026

🧠 Concept Link (Very Important)

Role of Women in Agriculture

• Women contribute nearly 40–50% of agricultural labour globally
• Women are involved in crop production, livestock and food processing
• Gender equality improves farm productivity and rural income
• Access to credit, technology and training is often limited for women
• Policies focus on women farmer recognition and land rights
• Inclusive agriculture supports sustainable rural development

❓ Practice Questions (MCQ)

1.Which country hosted the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026)?
A) Brazil
B) India
C) Kenya
D) Australia

Answer: B

2.GCWAS-2026 was held in which city?
A) Mumbai
B) Hyderabad
C) New Delhi
D) Bengaluru

Answer: C

3.Which organisation organised GCWAS-2026 in India?
A) NITI Aayog
B) ICAR
C) FAO
D) NABARD

Answer: B

4.Which year was declared International Year of Women Farmers by the United Nations?
A) 2023
B) 2024
C) 2025
D) 2026

Answer: D

5.The headquarters of ICAR is located in:
A) Hyderabad
B) New Delhi
C) Pune
D) Chandigarh

Answer: B

📜 Previous Year Question (Similar Type)

Which organisation is the apex body for agricultural research in India?

Answer: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Which ministry oversees ICAR?

Answer: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare

⚠️ Examiner Trap

Students often confuse ICAR with ICRISAT.

• ICAR → India’s national agricultural research body
• ICRISAT → International research institute headquartered in Hyderabad

🧭 Exam Tip

Examiners usually ask:

• ICAR full form and role
• Location of conference
• Theme and year
• UN International Year of Women Farmers

🏷️ Topics Covered

Women in Agriculture
ICAR
GCWAS-2026
Women Farmers
Agricultural Research
Gender Equality
CGIAR
Agricultural Policy
Sustainable Agriculture
Food Systems