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Liaison Committee – 82nd Session

07 March 2024

The 82nd Session of the Liaison Committee of African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) was held on 07th March 2024 at the Royal Plaza Hotel, New Delhi, India, under the chairmanship of Hon’ble H.E. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, High Commissioner of Republic of Ghana to India. The Session was attended by twenty-nine (29) delegates from twenty-two (22) member countries, namely, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Republic of China (Taiwan), Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Republic of Korea, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tunisia, Zambia. In addition, delegates from Embassy of Gabon, Rwanda, and Representative from International Cooperative Alliance Asia and Pacific and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), attended as Observers. H. E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO attended the meeting as Member Secretary to the Liaison Committee and Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO was equally present.

The session began with an address by the Secretary General of AARDO, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, who extended a warm welcome to the delegates, followed by remarks from the Chairman of the 82nd Session of AARDO Liaison Committee, Honorable H.E. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, the High Commissioner of the Republic of Ghana to India.

The quorum being complete, the Business Session commenced with comprehensive audio-visual PowerPoint presentations of Agenda Notes. The committee then proceeded to approve the Provisional Agenda, followed by the adoption of the Report of the 81st Session of the Liaison Committee by the esteemed participants. Subsequently, the Liaison Committee acknowledged the follow-up actions initiated or proposed by the AARDO Secretariat regarding the decisions and recommendations from both the 76th Session of the Executive Committee and the 81st Session of the Liaison Committee.

The Committee reviewed the activities of the Organization, Membership Contribution and Member Relations for the period August 2023 - January 2024, and took note of the projected programmes of AARDO for the period from February to July 2024.

The work programme and the Budget Estimates proposed for the triennium 2025-2027, incorporating suggestions received from the member countries and recommendations of the Technical Programme Committee (TPC) of AARDO, were placed before the Committee for consideration and for making appropriate recommendations to the 77th Session of the Executive Committee, scheduled to be held in Egypt, during the last quarter of 2024.

The Committee decided to hold its next (83rd) Session on 05th September 2024 and accordingly approved a list of Special Invitees to attend therein, as Observers.

The meeting concluded with remarks from H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General of AARDO, and the Chairman, expressing gratitude to the distinguished delegates and observers for their productive deliberations. They also extended their appreciation to the officers and others involved for their impeccable arrangements. Lastly, a group photo of the distinguished delegates was captured.





International Roundtable Meeting on “Millets for Global Food Security” National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad, India

12-14 December 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) organized an international roundtable meeting on "Millets for Global Food Security" on 12-14 December 2023, at MANAGE, Hyderabad, India. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) and Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Australian International Centre for Agricultural Research (AICAR) have collaborated with AARDO as technical and financial partners in this event.

The inaugural session of the roundtable meeting was held on 12th December 2023. It began with a welcome address by Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, Director General of MANAGE. The subsequent addresses were delivered by Dr. S. Glory Swarupa, Director General of the National Institute of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Ni-MSME) and Dr.C. Tara Satyavathi, Director of the Indian Institute of Millet Research (IIMR). The Chief Guest His Excellency Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General of AARDO, delivered his inaugural address, shedding light on the importance of millets in the context of the International Year of Millet. He highlighted the transformative impact of the international roundtable meeting on enhancing Millet production and consumption as well as on reviewing and conceiving favourable policies for Millet. This will bring positive changes in agriculture, the economy, and the health of Afro-Asian populations. Padmashree Dr. Khader Walli, Milet Man of India delivered a Keynote Address. He emphasized on the need to switch to millet, as the population is increasing and also keeping mind in global food security and eliminate change challenges . He further discussed about millet and its nutritional benefits and how it can cure non-communicable diseases. Dr. Sudhansu, Secretary, APEDA and Mr. Basanta Kumar Kar, Nutrition Man of India, with their pre-recorded messages, addressed the august gathering wherein they emphasized the significance of incorporating millet-based recipes into menus of restaurants and hotels worldwide and underscoring the nutritional advantages of millets and reinforcing the significance of millets in promoting health and well-being respectively.

A special issue of the African-Asian Journal of Rural Development, highlighting different aspects of millet on Millets, was released during the inaugural session. This publication aimed to contribute valuable insights to the discourse on millets and their role in rural development. The inauguration reached its conclusion with a vote of thanks, delivered by Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Behera on behalf of AARDO, expressing gratitude to all participants and contributors. The inaugural session ended with a group photo session, capturing the collective spirit of collaboration and commitment to the cause of promoting millets for sustainable development. On that occasion an exhibition on Millets and Millet value added product was equally inaugurated the exhibition stalls on millet-based products were appreciated by the participants.

The program was attended by a total of 16 international participants, representing countries such as Bangladesh, the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Kingdom of Eswatini, India, Jordan, Kenya, Liberia, Mauritius, Namibia, Oman, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, there were two international resource persons from Nigeria and Kenya, Furthermore, there were three participants from the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) and three from the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. The program included 11 resource persons from various institutes and organizations as well as 14 international participants from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) namely Bangladesh, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, including three representing AARDO’s eligible member countries Bhutan, Nepal, Uganda.

The main objectives of this program were largely focused on plenary sessions in three verticals (i) “Millet Cultivation-Challenges and Perspective in Different Parts of Africa and Asia” headed by the moderator Padmashree Dr. Khadir Walli (ii) “Health Benefits of Millets from Nutrition and Public Health Perspectives” headed by the moderator Prof. Moni Madaswamy, Shobhit University (iii) Value Addition and Value Chain headed by the moderator Dr. B Dayakar Rao, IIMR.

On 13th December 2023, the Participants were taken to ICRISAT for field visit to gain a deeper insight into the challenges in millet cultivation. The field visit commenced with an introduction to the institute and its research and development programs dedicated to enhancing global food production. During the session, ICRISAT's key goals, such as breeding, soil and water management, and improving farmers' market access, were discussed. Participants witnessed innovative strategies to boost millet crop yields, including regenerative agriculture practices in dryland areas. The process of the genotyping facility showcased ICRISAT's commitment to modern technologies for soil assessment, crop improvement, and efficient water harvesting. A notable aspect of the field visit was the participants' exposure to water harvesting practices at ICRISAT. The institute boasts seven artificial lakes and elevated tanks strategically set up for irrigation purposes, providing a sustainable water supply for agricultural activities.

The participants were also taken to IIMR-Nutrihub, where the focus was on assisting aspiring entrepreneurs in conceptualizing, nurturing, and accelerating their early-stage innovations. Dr. Tara Sathyavathi, the Director of IIMR, provided a comprehensive overview of various millet and researches being carried out by IIMR. Following the insightful session at IIMR-Nutrihub, participants delved into the exploration of millet processing and value-added product creation. Guided by experts, they witnessed the application of machinery, gaining practical insights into the steps from cleaning and sorting to milling and packaging. The visit highlighted the efficiency and precision required for large-scale millet processing and underscored the significance of technological advancements in maximizing millet's potential.

The Stakeholders and Technology Session, organized on 14th December 2023, aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the millet-based startup ecosystem in Hyderabad. Seven innovative startups, all focusing on millets, were invited to share their unique experiences and insights during the event. Each startup was allocated dedicated time to present their millet journey, highlighting challenges faced, milestones achieved, and the impact of their work on local communities. This session allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the diverse approaches and innovations within the millet sector. The primary motive of the session was to create a platform for startups to engage with various stakeholders, including investors, industry experts, and government representatives. Through this interaction, the organizers intended to strengthen the support system for millet-based ventures and promote sustainable practices in agriculture and nutrition.

Group discussion were held in the three verticals and group recommendations were drafted by moderators and a discussed and approved in plenary sessions moderated by Prof Moni Madasamy, Shobit University. A declaration of the round table meeting was also recommended for an extension of the International Millet Year beyond 2023, through the establishment of a platform captioned as Millet Advancement Alliance (MAA) Programme for Global Food and Nutritional Security.

The valedictory session of the program successfully concluded on December 14, 2023. The moderators of plenary sessions across three verticals presented their respective group recommendations. Professor Moni Madasamy from Shobit University presented the general recommendation and the final declaration which were unanimously adopted. The chief guest for the occasion was Ms. Pratibha Singh, Regional Manager of Country Partnerships at the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). She highlighted the growing importance of food security and underscored the significance of millets, particularly in African-Asian countries. Additionally, she provided insights into ACIAR's initiatives and efforts in addressing these critical global challenges. The valedictory address was delivered by Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, the Director General of MANAGE. Concluding remarks were given by His Excellency Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General of AARDO, who expressed gratitude to all and was of the view that the recommendation and declaration of the international roundtable meeting will have important ramifications. They are significant milestones in reaching diverse populations and achieving food and nutrition security, especially in AARDO member countries. All participants were presented with a certificate of participation. Ms. Kanaga Durga, Coordinator, MANAGE offered a vote of thanks.







40th International Vegetable Training Course (IVTC) on “Safe Vegetable Production”, WorldVeg, Southeast and South Asia Centre, Bangkok, Thailand

13 - 24 November 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with the Government of Republic of China (Taiwan), organized the above International Training Programme through the World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg) at its Research and Training Station located in Kasetsart University, Thailand, during 13 to 24 November 2023. A total of eight participants, from Bangladesh, India, Jordan, Malaysia, Namibia, Oman and Pakistan participated in the training programme.

This training programme focused on safe vegetable production. The main topics covered under the programme were: Good Agriculture Practice for Vegetable Crops (GAP Certification), Process of Developing GAP Standards Practices, Diseases of Vegetables and their Management, Global Perspective on Disease Management of Safe Vegetable Production, Principles of Regenerative Agriculture for Soil Health, Vegetable Grafting, Sustainable Soil Fertility Management, Integrated Pest Management, Postharvest Management and Processing, etc. Resource persons were invited from Kasetsart University, the Royal Project Foundation, Plant Protection Research and Development Office, National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards Bangkok Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), and the World Vegetable Center. The training methodology included a mix of classroom lectures, hands-on exercises, and excursions to postharvest management sites and facilities. The training successfully concluded on 24 November 2023. It was well received and highly appreciated by the participants of the programme.






Offline International Training programme on Application of Nanotechnology in Plant Growth and Crop Protection for Sustainable Agriculture, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), India

10-19 November 2023

An offline international Training Programme on “Application of Nanotechnology in Plant Growth and Crop Protection for Sustainable Agriculture” was organized by AARDO in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), during 10-19 November 2023.

The inaugural session of the training program was held on 11th November 2023. It began with the opening remarks of Prof. Dhirendra S. Katti, Dean of International Affairs (DOIR), IIT Kanpur. Welcoming the international participants, dignitaries on the dais, and Guest of Honor, Shakti Vinay Shukla Principal Director at Fragrance & Flavor Development Centre (FFDC), Kannauj, India, Prof.Katti briefed about the objectives of the course and various other initiatives of IIT Kanpur, especially its student exchange program with the countries of African Union and the postgraduate and doctoral programs for developing countries of Asia and Africa.

Speaking on the occasion as Guest of Honor, Director FFDC, Shakti Vinay Shukla highlighted the role of FFDC as a center to serve, sustain and upgrade the status of farmers and industry engaged in aromatic cultivation and it’s processing so as to make them competitive in the local and global markets.

The main aim of this program were largely focused on (i) Agricultural Challenges-Foster a deep understanding of modern agriculture challenges, encompassing food security, environmental sustainability, and resource depletion (ii) Advanced knowledge and practical skills in nanotechnology for plant growth and crop protection, safety and ethical concerns responsible practices (iii) Sustainable Agriculture Advancement-Demonstrate environmental benefits like reduced chemical reliance, enhanced water management, and improved soil health through nanotechnology and (iv) Implementation of innovative nanotechnology solutions, facilitating global dissemination for sustainable farming.

The program was attended by 10 participants, one each from Eswatini, Ghana, Jordon, Kenya, Malaysia, Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia and two participants from Mauritius. The participants were also taken to the field for a better understanding of the classroom deliberations. During their field visit to FFDC, Kannauj (the only center in Asia and second in the world that is involved in the full life cycle of fragrance and flavor development i.e., from cultivation to extraction of oil) they we exposed to the cultivation of the fragrance and flavor plants also the extraction and processing was demonstrated. Drone and GIS technology was also demonstrated to give insight about their application in enhancement of agricultural productivity keeping sustainability at core.

The program successfully concluded on 18th November 2023 with valuable feedback from the participants. Dr Amandeep Singh, Training coordinator, presented an overview of the program. The valedictory session was graced by the chief guest, Mr. Rami Mahmoud Abdel Halim Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO. In his valedictory speech, Mr. Rami emphasized on the growing importance of nanotechnology in agriculture and stressed on the need for supportive policies and appropriate investments. He motivated the participants as “not just a learner but a pioneer in this transformative journey of nanotechnology”. Prof. Shalabh, Dean of Academic Affairs, IIT Kanpur, Guest of Honor, Dr. Rasappa Viswanathan, Director ICAR Lucknow also graced the session. Prof. J. Ramkumar, Coordinator, IIT Kanpur presented a vote of thanks. The program concluded with a group photo session.








Online International Workshop on “Household Poultry Farming” (Arabic language)

05-09 November 2023

The African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO), in collaboration with the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), organized an online international workshop on “Household Poultry Farming" (Arabic language), during 05-09 November 2023. The primary objectives of the programme were: to enhance participants’ knowledge about the poultry farming practices and its importance in the economy; to highlight the nutritional values of the poultry products and to introduce model project on the household poultry farming; to create awareness on biosafety procedures in household poultry farming activities in rural areas; to discuss about the diseases impacting the household poultry production and ways of prevention and treatment; and to highlight marketing strategies for household poultry production.

This online international workshop was attended by fifty-four (54) participants from eight (8) Arabic speaking member countries, i.e. Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Sudan, Syria and Tunisia, and one (1) international organization, i.e. Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).

The opening session of the workshop was held on 05 November 2023 and was attended and addressed by the dignitaries, including H.E. Mr. Mohammad Osman Aboul Magd, Senior Undersecretary, Ministry of Social Solidarity, Government of the Arabic Republic of Egypt, Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO, Eng. (Ms) Alaa Tahleh, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for the Middle East, Jordan, Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa and Eng. Ibrahem Aamir, Program Coordinator, EICA who represented Eng. Soheir Hefni, Director General of EICA. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and Program Coordinator from AARDO, followed by a group photo session. During the technical sessions of the workshop, eminent experts/resource persons from the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt as well as invited resource persons from other institutes of Egypt, covered pertinent issues related to the subject of the workshop, which, inter alia, included topics like, poultry farming in rural areas and its importance in the economy, model projects for household poultry farming; feeding of home-raised poultry; observing the biosafety in different stages of household poultry farming (inputs - production - slaughter - marketing - waste treatment); diseases affecting the household poultry farming (its prevention and treatment); marketing of household poultry products, etc. All the sessions were very interactive and the participants also highlighted cases in their respective countries.

The workshop successfully concluded on 09 November 2023, with closing remarks by Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa, and Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and Program Coordinator from AARDO. On this occasion, several participants also expressed their gratitude to AARDO, its Regional Office in Cairo, and the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt for organizing this workshop in Arabic language, which was rich in its’ content and highly interactive.








AARDO-MARDI Online Training Programme on “Horticulture Crops for Food Security”

09-13 October 2023

The horticulture industry consists of three main commodities, namely fruits, vegetables and floriculture. In safeguarding food security through food production system transformation, the horticulture industry remains a main pillar.

In recent years biotechnology has become a vital tool in food security for increasing the crops’ yields, development of disease resistant variety/plants and mitigation of contaminants in food produces. Of recent, marker-assisted selection is being applied as key subsistence crops in many developing countries including Malaysia. Molecular markers provide essential information for horticultural breeding programs to assess crops' genetic diversity, preserving crop species' genetic heritage. This effort is significant in the face of the current climate crisis, as it is critical to conserving crops' genetic diversity to ensure future food security. In efficient plant disease management, advanced plant disease detection is important to minimize the damage and yield as well as economic losses due to the pathogen infections. Early detection offers the most cost-effective and efficient means in plant disease management before farmers/growers face severe loss.

To delve on theses issues, AARDO, in collaboration with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), organized an Online International Training Programme on “Horticulture Crops for Food Security”, during 09-13 October 2023. This has enabled capacity enhancement through transfer of knowledge and innovative technological solutions in the horticulture crop industry.

The inauguration of the programme was virtually officiated by H. E. Dr Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO, following the opening remarks by Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani, Director General, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) on 09th October 2023. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Khushnood Ali, Head Research Division, AARDO.

The programme received an overwhelming response and was attended by one hundred thirty-four (134) experts and functionaries from 25 member countries namely, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Eswatini (Swaziland), Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Zambia and a prospective member country, the Philippines.

The programme highlighted Malaysia's innovations in the field of horticulture and its application under various scenarios. The interactive training programme, spread over a week, comprised of eight (08) lectures which covered the pertinent aspects of the subject. The training programme successfully concluded with positive feedback from the participants and evaluation by the Programme Director Mr. Ariff merican Bin Din Merican, followed by closing remarks by Dr Khushnood Ali, Head of Research Division, AARDO and a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohsin Ali on 13 October 2023.








Regional Training Workshop on “Disaster Management and Climate Change Adaptation” AHK NCRD, Islamabad, Pakistan

04-10 October 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and the Regional Office of AARDO for South and Central Asia, successfully completed Regional Training Workshop on “Disaster Management and Climate Change Adaptation” at Akhtar Hameed Khan National Centre for Rural Development (AHKNCRD one week. The main objectives of the programme were to acquaint the participants with nature of disasters and their impacts on environment, economy and community; and to provide a forum to the participants from AARDO member countries for sharing country specific experiences.

The programme was attended by twenty (20) participants from eight (08) member countries namely, Jordan, Malaysia, Oman, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Syria, Yemen and the host country-Pakistan.

During the various technical sessions, topics such as Disaster Risk Situation and Management System; International Frameworks, Climate Change–Key Concepts and Global Perspective; Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Food Security and Rural Livelihood; Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, Rescue & First Aid; Development and Dissemination of Effective Early Warning, Role of Community, Civil Society, Media in Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation, etc. were covered through lectures, presentations, practical sessions, hands-on experience, field demonstration and institutional visits.To view the video please click here

Participants visited various apex level public sector Institutions such as National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Punjab Emergency Services (Rescue 1122), Watershed Management Site, Forest Department, Government of Punjab, Federal Flood Commission, and Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to get first-hand interaction with the top management of the institutions.

The concluding session held on 09th October 2023 was presided by Mr. Israr Mohammed Khan, Regional Representative & Director General, AHKNCRD. On that occasion, Mr. Rami Mahmoud Abdul Halim Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO addressed the session through a recorded speech. While concluding the session, the Director General AHKNCRD delivered his presidential address. On behalf of the participants, Mr. Hamed Sulaiman Ali Al Dhuhli and Eng. (Mr.) Wadea Abdulhabeb Abdulsattar Abdulhak, the participants from Oman and Yemen shared their experiences and extended their gratitude to AARDO and the Government of Pakistan for providing opportunity to attend the programme and warm hospitality extended to the participants during their stay in Pakistan. At the end, the participants were awarded certificates of participation by the Director General, AHKNCRD.






AARDO-VAMNICOM Online International Training Programme on “Agri Business through Cooperative Business Model”

03-06 October 2023

An online international Training Programme on “Agri Business through Cooperative Business Model” was organized by AARDO in collaboration with Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Cooperative Management (VAMNICOM), during the period of 03-06 October 2023.

On October 3, 2023, the inaugural session commenced with Dr. Ravi, Programme Coordinator, VAMNICOM, providing welcoming remarks and a concise overview of the program. Dr. Hema Yadav, the Director of VAMNICOM, delivered the opening address, highlighting the crucial role of successful agriculture cooperatives. She also shared notable achievements in Indian dairy and sugar cooperatives, emphasizing their transition towards sustainability. She encouraged effective communication in the online format and expressed gratitude to AARDO for entrusting VAMINICOM with this responsibility.

Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General of AARDO, extended gratitude for the collaborative effort in organizing the online training program focusing on Agri-Business through the cooperative business model. He emphasized the vital role of cooperatives in sustaining agriculture and rural development, particularly in light of challenges brought about by the pandemic. He underlined how the cooperative model empowers small-scale farmers, contributing to inclusive growth. He outlined AARDO's dedication to Human Resource Development (HRD) programs and the transfer of knowledge for rural prosperity. He provided examples of successful cooperatives and advocated for increased collaboration among them, with a call for replication in AARDO member countries. He further encouraged innovative approaches in agri-business cooperatives, with a focus on precision farming and market intelligence. He expressed confidence in the program's positive impact on rural communities and revealed plans for an upcoming training program on governance and management of cooperatives. The Secretary General concluded by expressing gratitude and looking forward to future collaborations.

At the end of the session, Dr. Ravi gave a vote of thanks which was followed by a group photo session. He extended his thanks to the entire AARDO team, including the Secretary General of AARDO, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO, Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Behera, Head of IEC Division and Mr. Kamal Dhameja, Head of Administration Division, for their efforts in making the program possible.

The primary aim of the program was to familiarize participants with the Co-operative Business Model, emphasizing its functions and principles in India. The program encouraged active participation and interaction. Over the course of four days, resource persons delved with various aspects, including the Cooperative business model, Agri Financing, Agro Processing, Agri Marketing, Consumer Cooperatives (Grahak Peth), Looms of Ladakh, and the adoption of an Area Based Integrated Approach for Cooperative Development in the Indian context.

The programme got overwhelming response from 143 participants in relevant fields from 24 member countries, namely, Burkino Faso, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Tunisia, and Zambia and four from Eligible Member countries, namely, Myanmar, Tanzania, Thailand, and Zimbabwe.

On October 6, 2023, the program successfully ended with Dr. Ravi delivering the concluding remarks. Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Behera, Head of IEC Division, provided an overall assessment, and participants from both Asia and Africa shared their feedback.








Online International Workshop on “Dairy Processing and Cheese Making” (Arabic language)

24-28 September 2023

The African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) in collaboration with the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), organized an online international workshop on " Dairy Processing and Cheese Making " (Arabic language) during 24-28 September 2023. The primary objectives of the programme were: to enhance participants' knowledge about the nutritional values of dairy products; to introduce various types of cheese making technology; to introduce different systems for dairy processing, production, methods of packaging and preservation; and to discuss marketing strategies for dairy products.

This online international workshop was attended by more than 100 participants from 12 Arabic-speaking countries: Algeria, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Yemen and host country Egypt.

The opening session of the workshop was held on 24 September 2023 and was attended and addressed by the dignitaries including. Mr. Mohammad Osman Aboul Magd, Senior Undersecretary, Ministry of Social Solidarity, Government of Egypt, Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO and Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and Program Coordinator from AARDO, followed by a group photo session.

During the technical sessions of the workshop, eminent experts/resource persons from the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt and other institutes in Egypt, covered pertinent issues related to subject of the workshop, which, inter alia, included topics like, processing of fermented milk (yogurt - curd); cheese manufacturing technology; marketing of dairy products; processing of fatty dairy products (cream, butter, ghee); Nutritional values of dairy product, etc.

The workshop was successfully completed on 28 September 2023, with concluding remarks by Eng. (Ms) Sohair Mahmoud Hefni, Director General of the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt, Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa, and Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and Program Coordinator from AARDO. On this occasion, several participants also expressed their gratitude to AARDO, its Regional Office in Cairo, and the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt for organizing this knowledge rich and significant online training workshop in the Arabic language.








Liaison Committee – 81st Session

20 September 2023

The 81st Session of the Liaison Committee of African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) was held on 20th September 2023 at the Royal Plaza Hotel, New Delhi, India, under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Mr. Louis Kwame Obeng, Deputy Head of Mission of the Republic of Ghana to India. The Session was attended by twenty-three (23) delegates from nineteen (19) member countries, namely, Bangladesh, Burkino Faso, Republic of China (Taiwan), Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Oman, Palestine, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Srilanka, Tunisia, Yemen. In addition, delegate from Embassy of Zimbabwe and Representative from International Solar Alliance, attended as Observers. H. E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO attended the meeting as Member Secretary to the Liaison Committee and Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO was equally present.

The Session commenced with the address of Secretary General, AARDO, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, who warmly welcomed everyone to the Session, followed the address of Chairman of the 81st Session of AARDO Liaison Committee, Hon’ble Mr. Louis Kwame Obeng, Deputy Head of Mission of the Republic of Ghana to India.

The quorum being complete, the Business Session began with the adoption of the Provisional Agenda followed by the adoption of the Report of the 80th Session of Liaison Committee by the august House. Thereafter, the Liaison Committee took note of follow-up actions taken/proposed to be taken by the AARDO Secretariat on the decisions/ recommendations of the 80th Session of Liaison Committee.

The Committee further analyzed and approved the review of AARDO activities over the last six months period pertaining to the Human Resource Development (HRD) Programmes, Development Pilot Projects and the Regional Offices. The Committee was also informed about the status of Membership Contribution and initiatives taken by the AARDO Secretariat to strengthen the Member Relations and expand its membership base for the period, February - July 2023. Furthermore, it took cognizance of the projected programmes of AARDO for the period October 2023 to March 2024.

Moreover, the Committee decided to hold its next (82nd) Session on 19th March 2023 and approved a list of Special Invitees to attend therein, as Observers. During the meeting, several agenda items were presented using comprehensive audio-visual power point presentations (ppt.)

Before concluding the Session, the AARDO Secretariat organized a technology exposure session by TARA (Technology & Action for Rural Development), a social enterprise of the Development Alternatives Group, New Delhi, India, dedicated at providing sustainable affordable solutions for rural areas. This included presentation on various sustainable development solutions and technologies like EcoKiln, Jal Tara Water Filter and Loco model.

The meeting ended with a group photo. Prior to that, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO and the Chairman, in their concluding remarks, interalia, thanked the distinguished delegates and observers for fruitful deliberations as well as Officers and others for making impeccable arrangements.








Online International Training Programme on “Augmenting Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCS) Targets and Job Creation Through Technology Solutions” Technology and Action for Rural Advancement (TARA)

12 - 15 September 2023

An online international Training Programme on “Augmenting Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCS) Targets and Job Creation Through Technology Solutions” was organized by AARDO in collaboration with Technology and Action for Rural Advancement (TARA), during the period of 12-15 September 2023.

The inaugural session started on 12th September with welcome remarks and a brief introduction of the programme by Ms. Bharti Jasrotia, Deputy Manager (Climate Change), TARA. Dr. Ashok Khosla Chairman, Development Alternatives gave the opening remarks, highlighting the issues of climate change, species extinction, and the loss of forests and soil. He further stated that Development Alternatives provides technology that is needed to be adopted for a productive and healthy, sustainable future generation. The Guest of honour, Shri. Shrashtant Patara, CEO (Development Alternatives Group) gave the opening remarks wherein he emphasised on the potential of intelligently applied technology to bring about transformative changes in people's lives and could play a crucial role in preserving the environment. Furthermore, he asserted that when technology is placed in the hands of entrepreneurs, it can lead to significant positive impacts, not solely confined to job creation, but also extend to generating sustainable income.

Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO, in his inaugural address, stressed on the importance of Technology Transfer. He stated that technology innovation plays an important role to combat climate change, both by reducing emissions and by adapting to the impacts of changing climate. He further pointed out that by improving energy efficiency through developing and deploying more energy-efficient technologies, we can reduce the amount of energy that we need to produce, which would in turn reduce emissions. At the end of the session, Mr. Kamal Dhameja, Head of Administration Division and Senior Technical Officer, IEC Division, AARDO gave a vote of thanks which was followed by a group photo session.

The inaugural programme was attended by 105 participants in relevant fields from 21 member countries, namely, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tunisia, Yemen, and Zambia and 3 from Eligible Member countries, namely, Benin, Indonesia and Niger.

The main objectives of this program were to showcase success stories of technological innovations for reducing carbon emissions and providing sustainable livelihoods in developing countries. The programme was highly participatory and interactive. During this four-day programme, the resource person, interalia, sensitized the participants on the demonstration of low-carbon cement technology, drinking water solutions to ensure water availability and accessibility; environmental approach to brick production- eco concrete technology; providing affordable and clean energy solutions.

The programme successfully ended on 15 September 2023 with the concluding remarks by Dr. Soumen Maity, Vice-President of Development Alternatives and Dr. Sanjeeb K. Behera, Head, IEC Division, AARDO.






MoU between AARDO and CIRDAP

10 September 2023

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between His Excellency Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, African Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) and Dr. Cherdsak Virapat, Director General, Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) on 10th September 2023.

AARDO and CIRDAP share common goal to improve self-reliance, economic resilience, and social well-being of rural communities in their respective member countries. The MoU promotes the spirit of South-South cooperation to address new emerging challenges by working on shared goals.

Under this MoU, AARDO and CIRDAP will collaborate in various areas related to agricultural and rural development, such as:
  1. Knowledge Partnership: sharing knowledge, experiences, and capacity enhancement to develop technological interventions in agriculture and rural development;
  2. Forums for Dialogue: creating a platform for exchanging views and ideas on innovative cooperation models for rural development;
  3. Institutional Capacity Building: organise international, regional online training programmes /in-country training programmes/workshops/seminars to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Member Countries;
  4. Technology-Based Development: jointly exploring and implementing pilot projects using pooled resources;
  5. Exchange of Experts and Scholars: facilitating the exchange of subject experts, scholars, students, and volunteers for conducting action-research studies of common interest;
  6. Technical Support: providing technical support and consultancy in project and policy formulations; and
  7. Institutional Networking: strengthening institutional networks for enhanced collaboration.
In brief, this MoU between AARDO and CIRDAP signifies a commitment to cooperative efforts to leverage on both organizations` forte to support rural development, aiming to improve the lives of rural communities in Africa and Asia mainly through shared knowledge, innovative solutions and cooperative action.


A Colloquium on ‘Millets for Health and Food Security & Degustation of Millets’ Speaker Hall, Constitutional Club, New Delhi, India

24 August 2023

AARDO has, in the context of the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023), proclaimed by the decision of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), organised a colloquium on ‘Millets for Health and Food Security & Degustation of Millets’ to raise awareness about the advantages and importance of millets in the human diet and rural economy at the Constitutional Club of India in New Delhi in association with Akhil Bhartiya Panchyati Raj Vikas Sansthan (ABPRVS).

H.E Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO, Padmashree Dr. Khadar Valli also famously known as the ‘Millet Man of India’, Millet coach Shalini Rajani along with Prof Y Gangi Reddy, President, ABPRVS. addressed the august gathering. The Secretary General, AARDO H.E Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh welcomed all the dignitaries and highlighted the efforts of the Organization in popularising the millets in AARDO member countries. He also referred to the past and future programme of the organization on millets. Dr. Khadar Walli, Millet Man of India highlighted the medicinal component of millet food and how it is a boon for different critical patients. He narrated his findings through an audio-video presentation which was appreciated by all the august gathering. He further highlighted the nutritious component of millets which have a lower glycaemic index as compared to other grains, making them an ideal food for people with diabetes and other metabolic disorder. While Dr. Reddy spoke as to how millets are an important source of income for many marginal farmers, particularly in developing countries, the Millet coach Shalini Rajani, after explaining personal experience with overweight, discussed several types of recipes, which can be made of millets and also explained how those recipes would help the people of all generations. The colloquium was attended by High commissioners/Ambassadors, diplomats from AARDO member countries and high dignitaries from the Government of India and collaboration partners of AARDO. The speakers were handed over a Millet Gift hamper by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General offered a vote of thanks at the end.

The diversified Millet food served after the colloquium was highly appreciated by the august gathering.





International Training Programme on “Climate Resilient Technologies for Sustainable Aquaculture Production in Developing Countries “, at School of Agriculture, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Republic of Zambia, 20-24 June 2023

20 - 24 June 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with the School of Agriculture, University of Zambia (UNZA), Lusaka and Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Government of the Republic of Zambia organized the above-titled training programme at the University of Zambia, Lusaka during 20-24 June 2023. The programme was attended by 10 participants, one each from Bangladesh, Eswatini, Jordan, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria Pakistan, Palestine, Sri Lanka, and host country Zambia, besides one resource person from AARDO’s link institution, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, India.

The inaugural session of the training programme was held on 21st June 2023, the inaugural session began with the opening remarks of Prof Thomson H. Kalinda, Dean of the School of Agriculture, UNZA. Welcoming the international participants, dignitaries on the dais and Honorable President of AARDO, Mr. Divine V. Ayidzoe and members of the 76th session of the Executive Committee meeting held in Lusaka Zambia on 20-24th June 2023, he briefly introduced the objectives of the training programme. Representing the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University Prof Anne Sikwibele, the Dean of Students Dr. John delivered the opening remarks. Speaking on the occasion as the Guest of Honour, the His Excellency Secretary General, AARDO, Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh emphasized on the climate -resilient aquaculture adaptations are much needed to sustain production and to uphold the socio-economic conditions. Referring to SDG 14, he further mentioned that UNZA is playing a pivotal role in pursuing its research and innovation to achieve sustainable development. Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sport, the programme was formally inaugurated by Mr Davies Muunga, Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth and Sport, At the end of the session, Dr. Sanjeeb K Behera, Head, IEC Division, AARDO gave the vote of thanks followed by a group photo session.

The main objectives of this program were largely focused on the (i) Identification of challenges associated with traditional systems of aquaculture regarding climate change (II) Integrated aquaculture alternatives as models for climate-resilient aquaculture for developing countries and (III) the Importance of climate-resilient hatcheries for developing countries. During the classroom sessions, the participants were informed about the Resilient Integrated Aquaculture – Agriculture (IAA) farming systems; the successful case of communities fisheries and farms in Zambia, Resilient medium-scale tilapia hatcheries; a case study of progressive fish hatcheries in Zambia, Building climate and community resilience in rural aquaculture production, Overwintering of tilapia fingerlings in bio floc systems by the resource persons from both UNZA, Zambia and IIT Kharagpur, India. The participants were also taken to the field for a better understanding of the classroom deliberations. During the field visits the participants got exposed to the Kafue fisheries (Kafue District) and Msekese fish Hatcheries (Chilanga Dist) before visiting the Kalimba (Reptile/fish integration system) at Siavonga. The participants also visited the AARDO-supported Fish project at Kafue.

The programme successfully concluded on 24th June 2023 with valuable feedback from the participants. Dr Paul Kachapulula, Training coordinator, presented an overview of the programme. The valedictory session was graced by Prof Thomson H. Kalind, Dean, School of Agriculture, UNZA and Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Behera, Head of IEC Division in the AARDO Secretariat. All participants were presented with a certificate of participation. Mr. Kamal Dhameja, Technical Officer, AARDO offered the vote of Thanks. The programme concluded with a group photo session.







Executive Committee – 76th Session | 20 – 23 June 2023

20 - 23 June 2023

The 76th Session of the Executive Committee of AARDO was held in Lusaka, Zambia, on 20 – 23 June 2023 under the chairmanship of Mr. Divine Y.Ayidzoe, Director for research, Statistics and Information Management (RSIM) Directorate, Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, Government of the Republic of Ghana. Eleven (11) out of the thirteen members of the Executive Committee, namely, Republic of China (Taiwan), Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Namibia, Palestine, Pakistan, Tunisia and Zambia attended the Session while Libya attended as an Observer. The Secretary General, AARDO attended the meeting as Member Secretary to the Committee.

The meeting started with an address by H.E. the Secretary General, AARDO who warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, the Hon’ble President and Vice-President of AARDO Executive Committee, distinguished delegates, the Observer and the invited guests; and highlighted AARDO’s initiatives and achievements. This was followed by the address of the Hon’ble President of AARDO Executive Committee who expressed his pleasure to be with all dignitaries and invitees. In his opening remarks, he inter-alia, underlined the importance of AARDO for rural transformation in Africa and Asia. He equally expressed gratitude to the esteemed Government of the Republic of Zambia for hosting the 76th Session of Executive Committee of AARDO. Thereafter, the Hon’ble Chief Guest, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Government of the Republic of Zambia, read the message of the Hon’ble Mr. Elvis Nkandu, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Government of the Republic of Zambia and inaugurated the Session.

After the inaugural session, an MoU was signed between Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Government of Republic of Zambia, and Barefoot College International, for capacity building and income generation activities for youth in the field of solar energy. Thereafter, a Saline Water Lantern, an affordable technology promoted by National Research and Development Corporation (NRDC), India, was handed over to the Hon. Mr. Kangwa Chileshe by H.E. Dr Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO.

The quorum being complete, the Business Session started with the adoption of the Provisional Agenda followed by the adoption of the Reports of the 79th and 80th Sessions of Liaison Committee by the august House. The Committee then took note of follow-up actions taken/proposed to be taken by the AARDO Secretariat on the decisions/recommendations of the 75th Session of Executive Committee and the 79th and 80th Sessions of the Liaison Committee.

The august house further analyzed and approved the review of AARDO activities over the last six months period relating to the Human Resource Development (HRD) Programmes, Development Pilot Projects and the Regional Offices. Thereafter, the Committee adopted the review of Membership Contribution and approved the update on AARDO Corpus Fund for the period August 2022 – April 2023. Moreover, the membership contribution of selected members was scrutinized for updating and re-activation.

The august house further adopted the 2022 audited Financial Statements, together with the Report of the External Auditors, and also took note of the unaudited financial statement for the first Quadrimester (January – April 2023); approved the review of Member Relations for the period August 2022 – April 2023.

The Executive Committee unanimously re-elected Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, nominee of the Government of Republic of Mauritius as the next Secretary General, AARDO for a period of four years, effective from 03 September 2023. As regards amendments in the Constitution and Rules of Procedure of AARDO, the Committee noted that updates of the 75th Session of Executive Committee would be placed before the 21st General Session of AARDO Conference to be held in 2024 and proposed amendments would be re-circulated to enlist support and position of a greater number of member countries.

The meeting concluded on 23 June 2023 with the approval and adoption of the Summary Report of the Session. During the meeting, several agenda items were presented using comprehensive audio-visual power point presentations (ppt.)






Study Visit Programme of Experts on “Smart Agriculture Policies and Programmes of Republic of China (Taiwan)”

11-17 June 2023

Agriculture is the backbone of the economies of many countries around the world. With population growth and changing climate conditions, the demand for food and other agricultural products is growing rapidly. With an estimated world population of over 9.5 billion by 2050, the demand for food will be under pressure to double. To meet this demand, countries need to implement smart agricultural policies and programmes that ensure sustainable farming practices, increase productivity, and improve farmers' livelihoods. To achieve these goals, Taiwan has implemented smart agricultural policies and programmes. With the help of modern technology and through smart production management, smallholder farmers can overcome the dilemma of struggling alone, improve the overall production efficiency and capacity of agriculture, and build a safe and sustainable food system.

The Republic of China has been always in the forefront of agricultural and rural development and has vast experience in smart agriculture. In view of the importance of the subject, AARDO, in collaboration with the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), organized the study visit programme on “Smart Agriculture Policies and Programmes of Republic of China (Taiwan)” in the Republic of China (Taiwan), during 11–17 June 2023 with the following objectives: i) to study the policies and application of smart agriculture for sustainable agricultural development; ii) to observe, understand and learn the various technologies, digitization and best practices used in agriculture production system and value chain management; and iii) to explore the possibilities to replicate similar policies and programmes in AARDO member countries, wherever possible.

The study visit programme was attended by fifteen (15) delegates from ten (10) AARDO members, namely, Bangladesh, Eswatini (Swaziland), Gambia, Ghana, Jordan, Kenya, R.O. Korea, Malaysia, Nigeria and Zambia, including a Senior Officer from AARDO.

The inaugural function of the programme, held on 12 June, was graced by the dignitaries, and addressed by Her Excellency Ms. Tu, Wen-Jane, the Hon’ble Deputy Minister of Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Government of the Republic of China and Mr. Rami Mahmoud Abdel Halim Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO. The inaugural function was also graced by Dr. Vincent Lin, Director General of Department International Affairs, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Government of the Republic of China, and resource person/senior officials of the Council.

This study visit programme introduced smart agricultural policies and programmes and exposed the delegates to intelligent agriculture education and research center, agri-business aquaculture enterprises, and related organizations with successful experiences in the related fields. During the study visit, delegates visited various centres of excellence i. e; Center for Intelligent Agriculture Education and Research, National Taiwan University, Taipei; Agricultural Production Cooperative, Taoyuan; Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), Taichung; Hsunyu Co., Ltd. (Mushroom Industry Enterprise) Changhua County; Symon Agricultural Biotech Co., Ltd. (Orchid Industry Enterprise); Apollo Aquatic Product Co., Ltd. (Aquaculture and Processing of Fish Products Enterprise), Taichiang Biotech Co., Ltd. (Aquaculture and Processing of Fish Products Enterprise); and Taipei International Food Show. Participants were exposed to various smart agriculture-based project networks, including pests ecological monitoring, crops production control, wireless sensor network systems, farmland cover map, data browsing, querying system, application of ICT on debris flow and conservation. The participants have acquainted themselves with up-to-date technologies on smart agriculture being used in agriculture and rural development in the Republic of China. In fact, participants were very impressed of the advancement and work done by the esteemed country in the field of smart agriculture.

The programme concluded in the forenoon of 16 June, where the delegates expressed their views, shared experiences and conveyed their appreciation to the Republic of China (Taiwan) and AARDO for the impressive and well-arranged study visits which gave exposure not only to policies and programmes but to a gamut of technologies and their impressive applications and tangible impacts at field level.

While in Republic of China (Taiwan), Mr. Rami Mahmoud Abdel Halim Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO had a very fruitful meeting with Her Excellency Ms. Tu, Wen-Jane, Hon’ble Deputy Minister and Dr. Vincent Lin, Director General, Department International Affairs, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Government of the Republic of China, and discussed matters of mutual interest and further collaboration.

The esteemed Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has always been in the forefront in AARDO’s endeavours to increase the number of inter-governmental collaborations in the sphere of rural development-not only in terms of HRD such as this one, but also in development projects on the ground. Since its joining in1968, the esteemed Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has always been very kind and generous in supporting AARDO’s technical as well as organizational activities. AARDO extends its profound thanks to the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Centre of Excellence and above Institutions/Organizations for their kind contribution and hospitality so extended to the delegates during their visits.







AARDO-EICA Online International Workshop on “Fruit Drying” (Arabic language)

04 - 08 June 2023

AARDO organized an online international workshop on "Fruit Drying" (Arabic language) during June 4–8, 2023, in collaboration with the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA). The primary objectives of the programme were: to introduce common types of fruits that can be dried; to identify the different methods and steps of fruit drying (principles – justifications/benefits - systems); to introduce different tools and equipment for fruit drying; to get acquainted with the quality standards and specifications of dried fruit; and to discuss economic feasibility of the fruit drying projects.

This online international workshop was attended by 88 participants from 9 Arabic-speaking AARDO member countries including Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Yemen and host country Egypt.

The opening session of the workshop was held on 4 June 2023 which was attended by the dignitaries including. Mr. Mohammad Osman Aboul Magd, Senior Undersecretary, Ministry of Social Solidarity, Government of Egypt, Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO, Eng. (Ms) Sohair Mahmoud Hefni, Director General of the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt and Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa. After the dignitaries delivered their speeches, the inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and coordinator of the program from AARDO followed by a group photo session.

During the technical sessions of the workshop, experts/resource persons from the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt and other institutes in Egypt, covered pertinent issues related to the workshop subject, which inter alia included topics like, Fruit Drying (principles - considerations - drying systems); Fruit production for food processing (drying); Practical Steps for fruit Drying (Examples of processing and Packaging Systems); quality standards and specifications of Dried fruits; and Economic feasibility of fruit drying projects.

The valedictory session of the workshop was held on 08 June 2023, which was addressed by Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa, and Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and coordinator of the program from AARDO. On this occasion, several participants also expressed their gratitude to AARDO, its Regional Office in Cairo, and the Egyptian International Centre for Agriculture (EICA), Egypt for organizing this significant online training workshop in the Arabic language. They also praised the program's important contents and expressed their appreciation for the workshop's organization.



AARDO-CLAC Online International Workshop on “Soilless Farming” (Arabic language)

21 - 25 May 2023

An online international workshop on "Soilless Farming" (Arabic language) was organized by AARDO in collaboration with the Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate (CLAC) of Agricultural Research Centre (ARC) of Egypt during the period of May 21–25, 2023. The primary objectives of the programme were to introduce soilless farming and smart farming; soilless farming systems and management of nutritional products; nutrition analysis; usage of earthworms; and marketing of soilless farming products.

This online international workshop was attended by 103 participants from 8 Arabic-speaking AARDO member/eligible member countries including: Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, Yemen, Somalia, and the host country, Egypt.

The opening session of the workshop was held on 21 May 2023 and was attended by the dignitaries including Mr. Mohammad Osman Aboul Magd, Senior Undersecretary, Ministry of Social Solidarity, Government of Egypt, Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO, Dr. Mohamad Abdou Rabeh, Director of Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate (CLAC) of Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Egypt and Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa. After the dignitaries delivered their speeches, the inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and coordinator of the program from AARDO followed by group photo session.

During the technical sessions of the workshop, experts/resource persons from the Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate (CLAC) of Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Egypt and other institutes in Egypt, covered pertinent issues related to the workshop subject, which inter alia included topics like, Introduction to soilless farming and smart farming; Soilless farming systems (hydroponics and environments); Management of nutrient solution in soilless cultivation; Earthworm compost technology and farms; and Marketing of agricultural products.

The valedictory session of the workshop was held on 25 May 2023, which was addressed by Mr. Mohamed Hassan Rashwan, Honorary Regional Representative of AARDO for North & Eastern Africa and Mr. Mohammad Naimuddin, Translation Officer (Arabic) and coordinator of the program from AARDO. On this occasion, several participants expressed their appreciation for the program and its important contents and expressed their gratefulness to AARDO, its Regional Office located at Cairo and the Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate (CLAC) of Agricultural Research Center (ARC), for organizing this important online training workshop in the Arabic language.





Online Training Programme on “Emerging Trends in Agricultural Technologies” at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT- KGP), West Bengal, India

27-30 March & 03-04 April 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with IIT Kharagpur, West Bengal, India, organized above online training during 27 March- 04 April 2023. The prime objectives of the training programme were to enhance the capacity and knowledge of the participants in the field of emerging trends in agriculture technologies and to provide an understanding of the latest advancements in agriculture technology and their potential to revolutionize farming practices, increase productivity, and promote sustainable development.

The programme was attended by two hundred and nineteen (219) participants from 27 member countries and 4 prospective members, namely: Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, R.O. China (Taiwan), Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, Yemen, Zambia.

The inaugural session of the programme was held on 27 March 2023. In his inaugural address, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO stressed that technology in agriculture affects many areas of agriculture, such as fertilizers, pesticides, seed technology, etc., and emphasized on how biotechnology, genetic engineering, mechanization, irrigation methods, transportation systems, and processing machinery interalia have played a role in transforming agriculture. Dr Nardeosingh also highlighted the role of AARDO as a platform for policy advocacy, capacity-building, and research, while noting that agriculture encompasses more than just production and that technology has impacted all areas of the sector.

Presiding over the inaugural function, Prof. Virendra Kumar Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur, welcomed the participants to the training programme and expressed his pleasure in collaborating with AARDO to organize this important programme. Prof. Tewari highlighted IIT Kharagpur's research efforts in the field of agriculture technology and how the institution was working towards developing sustainable and efficient solutions. Prof. Tewari emphasized the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing to achieve success in agriculture technology.

The course was designed to equip the participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement emerging technologies in their respective countries to achieve food security, reduce poverty, and improve the livelihoods of rural communities. During the programme experts in various fields presented their papers on topics such as AI application for crop parameter identification, machine vision in smart agriculture, preservation and processing of aquacultural products, and intellectual property challenges and technology transfer issues in agriculture.

The valedictory function of the programme, held on 4th April 2023, was graced by Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Head, Centre for Rural Development and Innovative Sustainable Technology and Head, Agricultural and Food Engineering. Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, delivered the Valedictory address and a vote of thanks was given by Dr. Sanjeeb Behera, Head, IEC Division, AARDO.





LIAISON COMMITTEE: 80TH SESSION

20 March 2023

The 80th Session of the Liaison Committee of African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) was held on 20th March 2023 at the Royal Plaza Hotel, New Delhi, India. The Session was held under the chairmanship of H.E. Mr Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, High Commissioner of Republic of Ghana to India and Honourable Chairman of the Liaison Committee of AARDO. It was attended by twenty nine (29) delegates from twenty two (22) member countries, namely, Burkina Faso, Republic of China (Taiwan), Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Libya, Malaysia, Morocco, Namibia, Oman, Palestine, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tunisia, Yemen and Zambia. The delegate from Embassy of Nepal attended the meeting as observer. H. E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO attended the meeting as Member Secretary to the Liaison Committee and Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General, AARDO was equally present.

The Session commenced with the address of H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO who warmly welcomed the Chairman, two Vice Chairmen, all Excellencies and other distinguished delegates to the 79th Session. It was followed by the address of H.E. Mr Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, High Commissioner of Republic of Ghana to India and Honourable Chairman of the Liaison Committee of AARDO.

The quorum being complete, the Business Session started with the adoption of the Provisional Agenda followed by the adoption of the Report of the 79th Session of Liaison Committee by the august House. Thereafter, the Liaison Committee took note of follow-up actions taken/proposed to be taken by the AARDO Secretariat on the decisions/recommendations of the 75th Session of Executive Committee and the 79th Session of the Liaison Committee.

The Committee further analysed and approved the review of AARDO activities over the last six months period relating to the Human Resource Development (HRD) Programmes, Development Pilot Projects and the Regional Offices. The Committee was also informed about the status of Membership Contribution and initiatives taken by the AARDO Secretariat to strengthen the Member Relations and expand membership base of AARDO for the period, August 2022 - January 2023. It equally took cognizance of the projected programmes of AARDO proposed to be organized from April to September 2023.

Moreover, the Committee decided, in principle, to hold its next (81st) Session on 20th September 2023 and accordingly, approved a list of Special Invitees to attend therein, as Observers. During the meeting, several agenda items were presented using comprehensive audio visual power point presentations (ppt.)

Before concluding the Session, the AARDO Secretariat organised a technology exposure session to the distinguished delegates which included presentations on soil rehabilitation and productivity enhancer fertilizer and an innovative health digital locket to register vital health parameters, especially for rural and tribal communities.

The meeting ended with a group photo after H. E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO and the Chairman thanked the distinguished delegates and observer for fruitful deliberations as well as others for making excellent arrangements.








AARDO-International Online training programme “Millets for Global Food Security” on International Year of Millets 2023

13 - 16 February 2023

Considering the importance of Millets n AARDO member countries in the context of climate change and food security and promoting Millets in the International Year of Millets, 2023, African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO), organized an international online training programme on “Millets for Global Food Security” for the larger benefits of its member countries. The programme was attended by around 230 participants in relevant fields from 31 member countries and eligible member countries.

The inauguration of the programme was virtually held on 13th February 2023. While Dr. Sanjeeb K. Behera, Head of the IEC Division, AARDO welcomed all dignitaries and participants and gave a brief introduction to the training programme, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO, and Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Former Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Government of India grace the occasion. Presiding over the inaugural function, Dr Manoj Nardeosigh, Secretary General, AARDO stressed on the importance of constantly upgrading the food system. Rural areas need to be fully integrated millets into the food value chains to assure resilient food security and reduce poverty. He further stated that food security is a basic human right, not a commodity for sale. He also spoke about the importance of 2023 as the “International Year of Millets” and the need to spread awareness about the same.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Mohapatra said that the Government of India has taken several initiatives to make millets a mainstream food. Consumption of millets needs to be increased at per with rice and wheat crops. He also added that large-scale awareness is needed to enhance and encourage the consumption of millets. Promotion by creating new recipes & distributing them for free would help promote millets to a greater extent.

The technical sessions of the training programmes were moderated by Prof. M. Moni, Ex-Director General of the National Informatics Centre (NIC), Government of India and Professor Emeritus at Shobhit Institute of Engineering and Technology. During the technical sessions, the resource persons from different fields related to the core subjects sensitised the participants about the importance of millets and how to create awareness about affordable models/advanced technologies in their home countries to mitigate the challenges in millets cultivation/ value addition. During the technical session, the participants actively participated through meaningful intervention. They also requested AARDO to organise an offline training programme and field visit to NutriHub, IIMR, Hyderabad, Dhan Foundation and CIAE-Bhopal. The technical sessions were concluded with the presentation of Prof. M. Moni, who summarised four days of presentations. He also thanked Dr. Sanjeeb K. Behera and AARDO team for organising such an important programme.

The programme successfully concluded on 16 February 2023 with valuable feedback from the participants. Dr. C.V. Ratnavathi, Director, ICAR- ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research Hyderabad, India and Mr. Rami Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General of AARDO graced the valedictory session. During their addresses, both the dignitaries emphasized on collaboration between AARDO and IIMR for the promotion of millets in different parts of the globe for the benefit of AARDO member countries. The session was concluded with a vote of thanks, given by Kamal Dhameja, Technical officer AARDO. He thanked all the participants, dignitaries and Prof. M. Moni, besides media partner Krishi Jagran for being a vital, part of this journey.








International Training Workshop on “Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Financial Inclusion and Rural Transformation”, Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Cumilla, Bangladesh

5 - 16 February 2023

The International Training Workshop on “Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Financial Inclusion and Rural Transformation” was organized by the African-Asian Rural Development Organization, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, at Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Cumilla, Bangladesh, during 05-16 February 2023.

The broad objective of the training workshop was to enhance the knowledge and capacities of the policy planners and financial service providers on the concepts and cross-cutting issues of SDGs and financial inclusion, and its implications on rural transformation. The workshop was intended to learn different ways of financial inclusion of the vulnerable and excluded rural people in African and Asian countries, identify new and sustainable financial products and services by addressing economic, cultural and structural problems; and, identify ways to mobilize adequate funds and develop a mechanism for inclusion of all segments of the rural poor in the financial services through presentation, discussion and exposure visits. It also aimed at identifying the second-generation problems of microcredit and various other financial products in the name of micro-finance and cost-effective solutions to the challenges faced in delivering financial services to the most vulnerable sections of rural people.

The inaugural function of the programme, held on 05 February 2023, was graced by the Chief Guest, His Excellency Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO. In his inaugural speech H. E. Dr Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO extended his gratitude to the esteemed Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and BARD for their kind support and generous contribution to organising this specialized training workshop for the larger benefits of AARDO member countries. His excellency mentioned that AARDO is poised to leverage south-south and triangular cooperation and to enhance intercontinental cooperation towards transformative policies, programmes and improved capacities in its member countries. He also highlighted the importance of the programme and wished for fruitful deliberations and rewarding experiences for all the delegates. Dr. Abdul Karim, Director General, BARD, also delivered his inaugural address. Besides, Mr. Abdullah Al Mamun, Director (Training) and Workshop Coordinator delivered his welcome & introductory address. Ms. Azma Mahmuda, Joint Director & Associate Workshop Director and Mr. Anas Al Islam, Assistant Director & Assistant Workshop Director were present at this function.

The training workshop was attended by seventeen (17) participants from twelve (12) AARDO member countries namely, R O China (Taiwan), Ghana, India, Jordan, Kenya, Namibia, Oman, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, Zambia, and the host country Bangladesh.

During the various technical sessions, the pertinent issues such as: Financial Inclusion and Rural Transformation: Bangladesh Experiences; Achieving SDGs and Rural Transformation: Lessons from Bangladesh; Social, Economic and Cultural Implications of Rural Transformation Process: Experiences from Bangladesh; Financial Inclusion through the Cooperative Movement: Public Sector Initiatives; BARD Experience of Rural Transformation through Financial Inclusion; Role of the Central Bank and the Microcredit Regulatory Authority in Financial Service Delivery in Rural Areas; Challenges, Possible Remedies and Policy Interventions of Financial Inclusion in Rural Bangladesh; Financial Inclusion through Shariah Based Banking System and Financial Inclusion: Lessons from Bangladesh; Financial Inclusion through MFIs: Experience of BRAC & Mobile Banking: An Innovative System for Financial Inclusion; Financial Inclusion and Rural Transformation etc. were addressed by the eminent resource persons, scholars and experts. The training workshop was a perfect blend of theories and best practices in the field of financial inclusion and rural transformation of AARDO member countries. Country experiences were also shared by the participants from their respective countries.

The valedictory session of the training workshop held on 16 February 2023, was graced by the Chief Guest, Mr. Md. Mashiur Rahman ndc, Honourable Secretary, Rural Development and Cooperative Division, Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development & Cooperatives, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Dr. Abdul Karim, Director General, BARD and Workshop Director, and Mr. Abdullah Al Mamun, Director (Training) and Workshop Coordinator delivered their speech in the concluding session. Participants from India and Namibia shared their experiences and gave their important feedback on the workshop.

The workshop was successful in terms of identifying the issues and challenges of financial inclusion and finding the possible solutions of those in the context of participating countries. The participants from twelve different countries expressed their satisfaction with the performances of the training workshop in the post-workshop assessment. They returned to their respective destinations with enhanced understanding, insights, and experiences of financial inclusion of the poorest and the most vulnerable, which if applied, might help them tackle the challenges of bringing a greater number of people into the fold of financial services as well as expanding poor people’s access to diversified financial products. The training workshop functioned as a platform for experts, policymakers and practitioners in poverty alleviation and rural development and is expected to be a promoter of ‘inclusive development’ in the African-Asian region as envisaged in the sustainable development goals (SDGs).










International Workshop-cum-Training Programme on “Natural Resource Management and Climate Change Adaptation”, National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR), Hyderabad, India

16 - 25 January 2023

AARDO, in collaboration with National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR), physically organized the above titled programme at NIRD&PR, Hyderabad, India, during 16–25 January 2023, under the additional contribution provided by the esteemed Government of India to AARDO.

The main objectives of the programme were to acquaint the participants with climate change & variability, impacts, linkages and adaptation strategies; explore climate change adaptation planning process and mapping the interventions to the risk; generate knowledge on the climate resilient interventions (production, technology, ecological and financial); get exposure on successful adaptation practices related to climate variability in rural areas, through in-house production based documentary films, case analysis and exposure visits, etc.

The programme was attended by fourteen (14) participants from nine (09) AARDO member countries namely, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ghana, Jordan, Mauritius, Namibia, Oman, Sudan and Syria.

On the kind invitation of the Institute Mr. Rami Mahmoud Abdel Halim Qtaishat, Assistant Secretary General graced the valedictory function, held on 25 January 2023 as the Chief Guest. The Hon’ble Director General, NIRDPR, Dr. G. Narendra Kumar also graced the function. The distinguished dignitaries delivered their addresses and distributed the certificates of participation. Earlier, Dr. Ravindra S. Gavali, Professor & Head, and Programme Director, NIRDPR briefed about the course contents, field visits and presented a feedback report.

On behalf of the participants, Mr. Md. Salimul Alam Shahin & Ms. Anita Kawol, the participants from Bangladesh and Mauritius respectively shared their experiences and thanked the organizers for the opportunity provided to attend this specialized training programme. In the last, vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Subhrat Mishra, Associate Professor, & Course Coordinator, NIRDPR.









International Year of Millets- 2023: Secretary General, AARDO in Krishi Jagran (Leading Agricultural Media House in India) for the release of Special Edition Magazines on Millets

12 January 2023

On an invitation from Krishi Jagran, one of the leading agricultural media houses in India, Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, AARDO attended an event on the Release of Special Edition Magazines on Millets as the Guest of Honor. The event was also graced by the Hon'ble Mr. Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying and and Hon'ble Kailash Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India.

Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary General congratulated Krishi Jagran for the successful organization of the event and said that it is one of the first organizations to celebrate the International Year of the Millets.

He also stated in his address, "The very slogan of IYoM 2023 as we enter this year is 'Rich Inheritance and Full of Potential' which is indicative of the evidence found of millet being consumed even during Indus Valley Civilization and in African countries where it was domesticated very early on. Millets or as some people recall it, NutriGold have been the staple food for 6 Million people, especially in the drylands. Millet is cultivated in huge amounts in 7 countries, India, Sudan, and Nigeria being the huge contributors in millet's production."

He also apprised the gathering that a round table conference is scheduled to be organized on millets in March 2023 by AARDO and further ensured that AARDO will be participating in helping the advancement of technology needed to improve millet cultivation, value-addition and customer base. He also applauded the philosophy of oneness of the Government of India and it leadership role, as President of G20 which could also serve as a forum for revalorising millet and triggering intra-regional trade

In the end, he said, "We have just unveiled a very special edition of Agriculture World and Krishi Jagran magazines in 12 languages and on the behalf of AARDO I congratulate Krishi Jagran for the success."