SAARC agriculture centre begins regional workshop

The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has begun a virtual regional workshop on "Agricultural Biosecurity for Plant Health in South Asia," bringing together experts to address plant health and transboundary biosecurity challenges.

Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, the Chief Guest, underscored the need for regional action to protect agriculture from pests and diseases that threaten food security and trade.

Dr Harunur Rashid, Director of SAC, welcomed participants and reiterated SAC's dedication to regional cooperation, noting that a unified strategy is vital for plant health and sustainable growth.

Dr Nazmun Nahar Karim urged stronger research-policy ties to protect crops, and Tanvir Ahmad Torophder emphasised the need for harmonising measures to ensure safe trade.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr V Celia Challam, Head and Principal Scientist, Division of Plant Quarantine, ICAR-NBPGR, India, on "Plant Biosecurity in South Asia: Status and Challenges." She warned of rising threats from invasive pests, such as wheat blast, Fall Armyworm, and locusts, which are exacerbated by climate change and porous borders.

Presenting the programme overview, Dr Sikander Khan Tanveer, Senior Program Specialist (Crops), SAC, stated that the workshop aims to serve as a consultation platform to identify challenges, opportunities, and a collective way forward for SAARC countries.

Technical sessions discussed strengthening regional networks, investing in early warning and surveillance systems, harmonising quarantine standards, and raising farmer awareness of integrated pest management. Experts also emphasised the role of digital tools, biotechnology, and regional funding in addressing emerging threats.

The three-day event is expected to deliver recommendations on establishing a SAARC Plant Health Biosecurity Network, promoting real-time data sharing, and advancing regional research collaborations to build resilient and safe agricultural systems.