Agrilife24.com:A three-day regional consultation on "Cropping Intensity and Biodiversity in South Asia" began today (23 June 2026), bringing together experts, researchers and policymakers from across the region to explore ways of increasing agricultural productivity while safeguarding biodiversity. Organized by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), the virtual meeting aims to promote regional cooperation and develop recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices that support both food security and environmental conservation in SAARC Member States.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid, Director of SAC, said that while increasing cropping intensity is essential to meet the region's growing food demand, biodiversity conservation must remain a priority for sustaining agricultural productivity and ecosystem health. He noted that biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining soil fertility, pollination services and ecosystem resilience, all of which are fundamental to sustainable agricultural development in South Asia.
Presenting the objectives of the consultation, Dr. Sikander Khan Tanveer, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) at SAC, highlighted the growing pressure on agricultural land across South Asia and emphasized the importance of evaluating the environmental impacts of intensified farming practices.
Delivering the keynote presentation, Dr. Pashupati Choudhary, Biodiversity Expert and International Consultant to UNDP and FAO, discussed how agricultural intensification can affect ecosystems, pollinators, soil biodiversity and natural habitats. He advocated for sustainable farming practices, crop diversification and biodiversity-friendly technologies to minimize environmental risks.
Speaking as the special guest, Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat, Nepal, underscored the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing in addressing common agricultural and environmental challenges faced by South Asian countries.
Chief Guest Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), said food security and biodiversity conservation should be pursued together rather than viewed as competing goals. He called for stronger research collaboration, evidence-based policymaking and greater investment in sustainable agricultural technologies.
The consultation is expected to generate recommendations for promoting sustainable cropping systems and biodiversity conservation across South Asia through regional cooperation and sharing scientific innovation.
