NITI Aayog hosted a National Seminar on ‘Sustainable Rural Livelihoods’, chaired by Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog. The seminar focused on critical topics such as enhancing rural livelihoods, market linkages, rural value chains and investments, microfinance, entrepreneurship, job creation for rural youth, resilient agriculture, and water security.

The event brought together thought leaders, policymakers, academicians, and community innovators from diverse sectors. Representatives from relevant ministries, international organizations, NGOs, civil society, entrepreneurs, and start-ups facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas to foster sustainable and inclusive livelihoods in rural areas.

In his keynote address, Dr. Ramesh Chand underscored the critical importance of agriculture in fostering sustainable rural livelihoods. The address was followed by insightful contributions from experts representing the Ministry of Rural Development, Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, and the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS). The discussions emphasized the necessity of transcending the urban-rural divide, advocating for a more integrated and balanced approach to development. The sessions also highlighted that India’s future growth hinges on the concept of SMART Villages, stressing the need for innovative strategies to build inclusive and self-reliant rural economies.

The inaugural session underscored the rural economy’s potential contribution to India’s GDP in the coming years. Participants discussed growth in rural infrastructure and integrated strategies for achieving sustainable livelihoods, with a focus on emerging trends in India's rural economy. The session explored inclusive economic growth through financial inclusion, job creation in the gig, care, green, and blue economies, and expanding employment in sectors such as construction, services, and manufacturing. Discussions highlighted empowering rural communities by connecting producers to larger markets and emphasized the importance of Gram Panchayats, women-led institutions, and civil society in driving rural progress through decentralization and community-driven initiatives.

The second session focused on sustainable livelihoods amidst climate change and associated vulnerabilities. Experts from institutions like NAARM, ICAR, CWC, and IWMI shared innovative research on agriculture, water security, and rural development. The participants opined and stated that there is an urgent need for a comprehensive groundwater law, as well as innovative models in agriculture and rural entrepreneurship to enhance resilience and improve livelihoods in rural India.

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MJPS/SR