1st INTERNATIONAL FARMING SYSTEMS CONFERENCE

With the growing world population, increased water demand, climate extremes, and low global food stocks, it's crucial to rethink our approach to secure and develop resilient food systems. The United Nations has established Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 which developed through global consensus, guide strategies at various levels to eradicate poverty and hunger (United Nations, 2015; SDG, 2021). Population growth and economic expansion have strained the resources for future agriculture, highlighting the need for new land and efficient resource management. While conventional farming has led to issues like biodiversity loss and soil degradation; alternative farming systems offer better resource conservation, improved rural livelihoods, and enhanced farm-sector stability. A shift from industrial models to ecologically sensitive and economically viable farming systems is essential. This includes designing farming systems for multi-functional landscapes that integrate carbon credits and ecosystem services for climate action. Adopting agro-ecology specific technology and crop diversification will support this transition, embracing the perspective of regenerative agriculture. Additionally, incorporating farming systems for One-Health ensures a holistic approach to human, animal, and environmental health

Considering the above issues and challenges, the ‘1 st International Farming Systems Conference (IFSC 2025)’ being organized by Farming Systems Research and Development Association in collaboration with the ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram will be crucial to accelerate the transition to sustainable agriculture. By convening the interaction of global experts, policymakers, and farmers, this platform will foster knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration. This conference is essential to address complex agricultural challenges, develop practical solutions, and ensure that farming systems effectively contribute in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The expected outcomes of the conference include:

• ▪ A shared global vision: A unified understanding of the critical role played by farming systems in achieving sustainable development goals.
• ▪ Innovative solutions: The development of practical and scalable solutions to address agricultural challenges, such as climate change adaptation, food security, and resource conservation.
• ▪ Stronger partnerships: Collaborative networks among researchers, policymakers, farmers, and industry to drive implementation of sustainable farming practices.
• ▪ Policy recommendations: Evidence-based policy recommendations to support the adoption of farming systems approaches at national and international levels.