India and Australia have agreed to expand their research partnership in agricultural and water sustainability, with both focusing on increasing scientific cooperation and academic exchanges. The renewed momentum followed the Australia-India Water Centre’s fifth anniversary celebrations, which took place from November 17 to 19 at Western Sydney University. The event brought together experts, institutions, and policymakers to discuss climate-resilient agriculture and mounting water-related concerns in both countries.
Senior officials stated that discussions focused on extending cooperative research, enhancing student and faculty mobility, and accelerating technology exchange to achieve sustainable development goals. The deliberations were attended by Dr S Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, and Dr M L Jat, Secretary of DARE and Director-General of ICAR, as well as Australian representatives.
A significant achievement was the signing of an addition to the current ICAR-WSU work plan, which extended the relationship until 2029. The enhanced relationship will support long-term projects in sustainable water management, climate-smart agriculture, capacity building, and dual-degree programs to generate skilled professionals.
The discussions emphasised the growing importance of the Australia-India Water Centre as a base for applied research, particularly as both nations face climate-driven water constraints and the need for increased agricultural resilience.
