Maharashtra, one of India’s most diverse and dynamic agricultural states, has long exemplified both the challenges and opportunities facing Indian farmers. As Maharashtra’s farmers confront mounting climate pressures, from erratic rainfall and depleting groundwater to extreme weather and rising input costs, a major policy dialogue in Nagpur on June 30 will bring together key players to chart a new path for sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture across the state.

The Regional Policy Dialogue on Climate Change & Agriculture is part of the Sustainability Matters and IndiAgri regional series and is being organised in collaboration with local partners, with support from GreyMatters Communications, FIJEEHA, and other stakeholders.

Bringing together a diverse group of experts, government officials, scientists, agri-entrepreneurs, and progressive farmers, the dialogue aims to chart a regionally relevant and forward-looking roadmap for sustainable agriculture in Maharashtra. The Nagpur edition builds on insights from previous Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards held in Delhi and regional consultations in Bhopal, and Chandigarh, and will reflect the unique realities of the state, from watershed management and micro-irrigation to farmer producer companies and climate-smart farming innovations.

A key feature of the event is the Sustainability Awards, now open for nominations. The awards recognise individuals and innovations making a tangible impact in sustainable agriculture. The eight award categories include water conservation, soil health, climate-resilient practices, digital excellence, agtech, community initiatives, and progressive farming. Nominations are being accepted till June 27, 2025.

“This dialogue comes at a crucial time for Maharashtra, where farmers and innovators have shown remarkable resilience in the face of climate challenges,” said Dr Navneet Anand, Executive Director of Sustainability Matters. “The aim is to bring these pioneering efforts into the spotlight and create a platform where they can inspire larger change across the agricultural sector.”

“Recognising on-ground success stories is vital for building an ecosystem of knowledge-sharing and replication,” Dr Anand added. “The awards are meant to celebrate these efforts and encourage more widespread adoption of climate-resilient and sustainable practices.”

The Nagpur dialogue will spotlight the challenges faced by Maharashtra’s farming communities and also showcase pioneering solutions and encourage collaboration across sectors. By bringing voices from the ground together with experts and policymakers, the event aims to catalyse actionable strategies that can drive the next phase of sustainable agriculture in the state.