Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday called agriculture the “soul of Indian civilization” as he announced that New Delhi will host the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC 2025) at Bharat Mandapam on October 30-31.
In a video message, Goyal said the two-day event would be the world’s largest gathering for the rice industry, bringing together farmers, exporters, global buyers, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
“Agriculture has always been the soul of our civilisation, with rice as the pride of our farmers. BIRC 2025 will be a symbol of India’s rice diversity, quality standards, and a platform to strengthen business-to-business linkages,” he said.
Organised by the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, the conference is designed as a global platform to connect the rice sector’s key players.
Goyal highlighted that the event would support India’s goal of doubling agricultural and agri-based exports within the next five years. “This will accelerate our vision to double agri exports with trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ensuring our farmers’ welfare remains central to trade negotiations,” he said.
India has emerged as the world’s top rice producer, with a record output of 145 million metric tons, surpassing China. The country now commands over 40% of the global rice trade, exporting to 172 countries and playing a critical role in global food security.
Urging stakeholders to focus on credibility and innovation, Goyal added, “Let us dream big and plan boldly. Beyond being the largest exporter, we must become the most trusted global brand, promoting value-added rice products and enabling new market access.”
He concluded, “Let us all contribute to Viksit Bharat 2047 and a better future for our farmers. I wish BIRC 2025 great success.”
