3 . International Food Policy Research Institute ( IFPRI ): Focus : Provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger . Activities : Research , publications , policy analysis , and capacity building .
4 . World Food Programme ( WFP ): Focus : Provides food assistance to tackle hunger and promote food security . Activities : Emergency assistance , development aid , and logistics support .
5 . Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research ( CGIAR ): Focus : A global research partnership for a food-secure future . Activities : Research programmes , partnerships , and development initiatives .
6 . International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements ( IFOAM ): Focus : Promotes organic agriculture through advocacy , education , and standards development . Activities : Advocacy , standards development , and certification support .
7 . Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation ( GFAR ): Focus : Enhances agricultural research and innovation through global collaboration . Activities : Advocacy , networking , and capacity building .
HISTORY OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING
Agricultural engineering has evolved from simple mechanical innovations to a sophisticated , inter-disciplinary field that integrates advanced technology , sustainability , and global collaboration . Its history reflects the continuous quest to improve agricultural productivity and efficiency while addressing the challenges of a growing global population and environmental sustainability .
1 . Ancient and Early Developments : Ancient Civilisations ( circa 10,000 BCE – 1,000 CE ) and Medieval Period ( 500 – 1500 CE ) The early agricultural societies in Mesopotamia , Egypt , the Indus Valley , and China developed irrigation systems , plows , and other basic agricultural tools . The Roman Empire made advancements in water management , including aqueducts and drainage systems , which were crucial for agriculture . The development of the heavy plow in Europe enabled the cultivation of heavier soils . Innovations like the threefield system improved crop rotation and soil fertility .
2 . Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution ( 1500 - 1800 CE ) During the Renaissance ( 14 th - 17 th century ), improved understanding of mechanics and hydraulics led to better water management and milling technologies . Agricultural treatises and manuals began to be written , spreading knowledge about farming techniques .
3 . 17 th - 18 th Century This period witnessed the Agricultural Revolution in Britain with significant changes , including selective breeding of livestock , crop rotation , and the introduction of new crops like turnips and clover . Jethro Tull invented the seed drill ( 1701 ), which improved the efficiency of planting seeds .
4 . 19 th Century : Birth of Agricultural Engineering - Mechanisation of Agriculture The Industrial Revolution brought about the mechanisation of agriculture with inventions like the mechanical reaper by Cyrus McCormick ( 1831 ) and the steel plow by John Deere ( 1837 ). Steam-powered tractors and threshing machines began to appear , drastically increasing agricultural productivity .
The term “ agricultural engineering ” began to be used , and the first formal programmes and departments were established in universities .
The American Society of Agricultural Engineers ( ASAE , now ASABE ) was founded in 1907 to promote the profession and standardise practices .
5 . 20 th Century : Growth and Expansion Technological Advancements The development of gasoline-powered tractors in the early 20 th century revolutionised farming , leading to increased mechanisation and efficiency . Advances in irrigation technology , such as the centre pivot irrigation system , improved water management and crop yields .
63