From the Taj Mahal to Midwest Soil: Global Agricultural Lessons from Dubai and India
Can you name one of the Seven Wonders of the World? It’s a bit of a trick question, because it turns out there are multiple different lists. It makes sense … why limit the wonders to just seven?
I recently had the privilege of visiting one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the Taj Mahal. My visit was part of an international seminar and the final session with the Illinois Ag Leadership Program. I joined 24 other agricultural professionals on a two-week trip that took us to Dubai and various parts of India. Throughout the trip we met with local farmers and agricultural business leaders, we explored topics like trade, food security, and sustainability, and we gained insights into history and culture – both internationally and our own.
Dubai’s ultra-modern architecture and wealth were stark contrasts to India’s historical sites and developing economy. We soared into the sky at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 2,722 ft tall. Closer to the ground we visited a camel dairy farm that bottles milk for local-worldwide consumption and we sampled ice cream. We also got to ride a camel during a desert safari.
As a small desert country, Dubai imports more than 90% of its food. COVID exposed vulnerabilities in its food supply, and current initiatives like Food Tech Valley focus on increasing local food production, processing capacity, and agricultural innovation. Local food production is limited by environmental and climatic conditions, and it is not realistic to think that Dubai will produce enough food to feed itself. To ensure true food security, Dubai is focused on building and maintaining good trade relations with multiple countries.
Food security and trade were common topics during our stops in India. We visited with government leaders, agricultural educators, business leaders, product suppliers, distributors and processors, and farmers. India has successfully increased food production over the past 50 years, going from a net importer of rice to self-sufficient, and even exports some specialty varieties.
We were fortunate to visit a potato farmer in the field and learned how he is working with local advisors to increase soil health and fertility. We trekked into the countryside to visit a pomegranate farmer that is mentoring and collaborating with other farmers, building a network and increasing production to meet demand. Mentoring activities include agronomic production tips and business training, especially for women farmers.
Our farm visits were only a small slice of Indian agriculture. Driving through the countryside we saw corn, rice, wheat, sugarcane, sorghum, mustard, sunflowers, cilantro, onions, and some crops that were completely new to us. We also experienced two traffic jams: cattle and sheep often travel along rural roads.
Thankfully, our itinerary included some “touristy” activities like riding a rickshaw through Old Delhi, visiting the Taj Mahal, touring Elephanta Caves, and stopping by local shops where we saw cooperative business structures thriving and purchased hand-crafted souvenirs.
Back in my home, I smile when I see the hand-knotted Indian rug that I purchased, and I am savoring each cup of Indian Chai. Both items bring me joy and remind me that my experience with the Illinois Ag Leadership Program in Dubai and India was truly amazing. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to network with agricultural leaders, explore amazing sites, see different crops, and taste different foods. And most of all, I am grateful for the way that travelling gives me greater appreciation for the fertile soil and valuable natural resources we have in the Midwest, and for the many wonders right here at home.
