Deputy Minister: Droughts become major threat to food security, productivity

The scale of global droughts is expanding, and this issue has become especially urgent for Azerbaijan, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ilhama Gadimova told journalists on the third day of Baku Climate Action Week (BCAW2025), Report informs.

Gadimova noted that water management is one of the most critical areas affecting agriculture: "That's why Azerbaijan places water issues among its top priorities in the context of climate adaptation. In recent years, droughts have emerged as a serious factor impacting both food security and agricultural productivity."

She emphasized that this topic remains central to ongoing discussions. "For several years now, our country has been promoting the adoption of modern irrigation systems. The government offers incentives and subsidies to encourage farmers to use advanced irrigation methods. These systems reduce water consumption, prevent losses, and ultimately lead to higher yields-making them doubly important for both resource efficiency and increased production."

The deputy minister added that emerging technologies are opening up new opportunities in agriculture: "We're not only talking about modern irrigation. Other technologies used in agriculture are also highly significant. For example, today's first panel featured a presentation on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in farming. It demonstrated how AI can help farmers both adapt to and combat climate change. Government institutions are treating these issues as strategic priorities and integrating them into policy with serious commitment."