SSA Consultant BRICS (Ministry of Agriculture)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for vulnerable populations. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger. The organization values diversity and inclusion, encouraging individuals from various backgrounds to contribute to its mission. WFP invests in the professional development of its employees through training, mentorship, and opportunities for internal mobility, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

Job Overview:
The SSA Consultant for BRICS will play a crucial role in supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoAFW) in India as it prepares for its BRICS Presidency in 202

• This position involves providing technical and logistical support to the MoAFW, ensuring effective planning and coordination of activities under the Agriculture Working Group (AWG). The consultant will be seconded to the Ministry for a duration of 12 months, focusing on substantive and logistical tasks related to BRICS AWG activities. The role requires high-quality analytical and technical support, contributing to India's engagement within BRICS on agricultural issues, food systems, climate resilience, and sustainable development. The consultant will work closely with both WFP India and the MoAFW, facilitating communication and collaboration between various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including:

• Providing high-quality analytical inputs on domestic and international developments related to BRICS cooperation in agriculture.
• Reviewing and synthesizing global agricultural trends, innovations, and policy updates from reliable sources.
• Analyzing country-specific agricultural strengths and weaknesses to identify collaboration opportunities under BRICS.
• Examining draft declarations and providing well-researched analytical inputs for senior officials.
• Preparing background notes, talking points, and briefing materials for Indian delegations.
• Drafting concept notes, proposals, meeting summaries, and coordination briefs.
• Supporting the planning and execution of BRICS AWG meetings, seminars, and workshops.
• Coordinating with relevant divisions and external partners for logistical arrangements.
• Ensuring timely preparation and dissemination of meeting folders and reports. 1
• Liaising with national and international stakeholders to ensure seamless coordination. 1
• Supporting the IC Division and WFP India in other tasks aligned with BRICS AWG objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal, analytical, and professional communication skills. Proven advocacy, negotiation, and networking abilities with government, civil society, and international organizations are essential. A deep understanding of climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable food systems, and renewable energy applications in agriculture is required. Familiarity with nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security frameworks, government policies, and data systems in agriculture and climate change is also necessary. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and analytical tools is expected, along with knowledge of UN systems and Government of India procedures being advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or PhD) in Development Studies, Public Policy, Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, or related disciplines is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional years of relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree. Academic exposure to agricultural systems, sustainable food systems, agri-value chains, and agribusiness development is desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in agriculture, rural livelihoods, climate resilience, or sustainable food systems. Experience in partnership with government institutions, UN agencies, or international development organizations is preferred. Proven experience in implementing sustainable agriculture and livelihood programs at national or state levels is essential. Exposure to climate change adaptation, rural financing, community-led initiatives, and capacity development is desirable. Prior experience in supporting international cooperation and multilateral events will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English and Hindi is mandatory. The ability to speak other Indian languages will be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to Indian nationals only and is available for both internal and external candidates. The contract duration is 12 months, with a two-week break in service after 11 months. The salary range for this position is between INR 1,05,000 to INR 1,29,000 per month, plus medical coverage and death & disability coverage. All tax liabilities for payments from this contract will be borne by the subscriber. A written test will be used for screening candidates, and only those under serious consideration will be contacted. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background verification.