Indore/ Bhopal June 10, 2026

The BRICS Agriculture Summit in Indore is not only about policy discussions, food security and climate-resilient farming. It is also becoming a window into the rich agricultural traditions and rural enterprise models of Madhya Pradesh. On June 10, foreign delegates participating in the summit stepped out of conference hall and into Indore's vibrant Rural Haat. What followed was a colourful journey through the farms, forests, crafts and food traditions of the state.

The visit was organised jointly by the Agriculture Department and Mera Yuva Bharat as part of the BRICS Agriculture Conference being held in Indore from June 9 to 13. Delegates from several BRICS and partner nations were welcomed in traditional Malwa style. Turbans were tied on their heads and tribal folk dancers greeted them with energetic performances.

Soon, the formal atmosphere gave way to celebration. Many foreign guests joined the dancers, moving to the beats of drums and traditional folk music. The interaction offered a glimpse of rural India's warmth and hospitality. As the delegates walked through the Rural Haat, they discovered how agriculture in Madhya Pradesh goes far beyond crop production. It is increasingly linked with value addition, food processing, entrepreneurship and local livelihoods.

One of the biggest attractions was Burhanpur's banana-based products. Guests explored banana chips, cookies and even garments made from banana fibre. The innovative use of farm produce generated considerable interest among visiting experts. The delegates also sampled Rewa's famous GI-tagged Sundarja mango and Balaghat's aromatic Chinnor rice. Many were impressed by how traditional agricultural products have been successfully positioned as premium regional brands.

Several unique crops drew attention as well. Experts showed keen interest in Jhabua's indigenous maize varieties and the rare millet collection preserved by Mandla's celebrated "Millet Queen" Lahari Bai. The display highlighted India's growing efforts to conserve traditional seeds and promote climate-resilient farming systems. Medicinal crops from Neemuch, jaggery from Narsinghpur and forest-based products from Chhindwara further showcased the diversity of Madhya Pradesh's rural economy.

The visit also highlighted the state's handloom and handicraft traditions. Delegates admired Chanderi, Maheshwari and Kosa textiles, along with Bagh prints and Gond art. Sustainable products such as Tussar silk, Mulberry silk and hemp-based clothing attracted particular attention because of their low-water and eco-friendly production processes.

A key highlight was the interaction between delegates, women self-help groups and Farmer Producer Organisations. Foreign representatives discussed marketing, value addition and rural business models directly with grassroots entrepreneurs. Many praised the community-driven approach and said similar models could be adapted in their own countries. As the visitors relaxed on traditional charpoys and enjoyed local snacks, the experience became more than a cultural showcase. It reflected the larger theme of the BRICS Agriculture Summit — strengthening food systems while empowering small farmers, rural communities and local enterprises.

Several delegates described the Rural Haat as a living example of sustainable development, where agriculture, culture and entrepreneurship come together. Their message was clear: the future of farming lies not only in technology and trade, but also in preserving local knowledge and creating value at the grassroots level.