📍 Nagpur, Maharashtra, India | January 19-21, 2025
The National Conference on “Emerging Issues and Sustainable Strategies in Plant Health Management: A Global Perspective” was held from January 19-21, 2025, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. This significant event brought together experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss innovative approaches for safeguarding plant health and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
One of the key highlights of the conference was a Plenary Lecture delivered by Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, titled “Sustainable Plant Health Management to Accelerate Agri-Food Systems Transformation.” His presentation emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions in plant health management, focusing on biopesticides, agroecology, digital innovations, and policy-driven approaches to mitigate plant health challenges and build resilient global agri-food systems.
Recognizing Excellence in Agriculture
In recognition of his significant contributions to the field, Dr. Ravi Khetarpal was honored with the “Agri-Science Leadership and Global Excellence in Agriculture” award.
Strengthening Global Efforts for Plant Health
The conference also underscored the need for collaborative efforts between governments, research institutions, and industry stakeholders to address the challenges posed by climate change, invasive pests, and emerging diseases. The discussions reinforced the importance of integrating One Health approaches and international cooperation in plant health management.
With the support of organizations such as STDF/WTO, USDA, EU, FAO, and AFD, APAARI is actively implementing multi-country regional projects in the Asia-Pacific to:
- Promote the use of biopesticides.
- Strengthen seed trade compliance with international standards.
- Pilot the One Health approach for mycotoxin management.
- Work on agroecology-based food systems transformation.
- Enhance agricultural innovation ecosystems.
- Prioritize plant health research agendas under EUPHRESCO III.
Looking Ahead
As the world faces increasing threats to plant health due to climate change, global trade, and evolving pest dynamics, it is crucial to shift towards more sustainable, technology-driven, and policy-backed solutions.
Acknowledgement
- Indian Phytopathological society
- ICAR – Central citrus research Institute
- ICAR – Central Institute for cotton research
- Asian PGPR Society for sustainable agriculture, India chapter
- Association of plant pathologist
