(a) whether agreements or MoUs have been signed with various countries particularly with
Italy and New Zealand with regard to agricultural cooperation, biosecurity, exchange of
technology among others;
(b) if so, the details thereof and steps taken thereon; and
(c) the likely impact of such agreements/MoUs on agriculture sector?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE(SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)
(a) & (b): The position in respect of Italy and New Zealand is as follows:
An MoU between Ministry of Agriculture of India & Ministry of Agricultural,Food and Forestry
Policies of Italy has been signed on 16.1.2008.The MoU inter-alia provides for cooperation in
agriculture and horticulture,rural development,food quality and safety,plant science,animal
health,animal breeding,fisheries,biotechnology,agricultural engineering and food processing.
India and New Zealand already have an MoU on plant quarantine issues.A tripartite MoU among
Indian Council of Agricultural Research,Land Care Reaearch and Massey University,New Zealand
is also being discussed and will be signed as soon as all the clearances are available.
(c): The bilateral cooperation envisaged in the MoU will improve trade between the two
countries, encourage exchange of ideas and technology and will be beneficial for agricultural
sectors of both the countries.