The Government of India and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) launched a new eight-year Country Strategic Opportunities Programme (COSOP) to strengthen India's rural economy. The strategy focuses on sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, nutrition, and rural livelihoods. IFAD, a UN specialized agency, has been India's development partner since 1979, investing over $1.2 billion across 35 projects. The programme targets smallholder farmers, women, youth, and marginalized communities through innovative financing and technology solutions.

IFAD's eight-year strategy represents a paradigm shift in rural development approach, moving from traditional agricultural support to comprehensive rural transformation. The Country Strategic Opportunities Programme (COSOP) addresses India's agrarian challenges through three strategic objectives: enhancing climate-resilient production systems, strengthening value chains for nutrition and market access, and promoting inclusive rural transformation. This collaboration is crucial as India houses 69% of its population in rural areas, with agriculture employing nearly 50% of the workforce while contributing only 18% to GDP. The strategy emphasizes South-South cooperation, knowledge sharing, and leveraging India's digital infrastructure like JAM trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) for last-mile delivery. IFAD's focus on smallholder farmers is significant given that 86% of Indian farmers are small and marginal, owning less than 2 hectares. The programme's emphasis on climate adaptation addresses critical vulnerabilities as agriculture faces increasing climate risks. The strategy also aligns with India's national priorities including doubling farmers' income, achieving SDGs, and building climate resilience, making it a cornerstone for rural economic transformation.