Punjab is moving toward a significant shift in agriculture with a renewed focus on crop diversification and sustainability. During his ongoing visit to the Netherlands, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann secured an agreement to establish a Centre of Excellence for Basmati, an initiative aimed at boosting farmers’ incomes and reducing reliance on the traditional wheat paddy cycle.
As part of his visit, Mann studied advanced agricultural and industrial practices that could benefit Punjab’s farming community, which has long contributed to India’s food security. He noted that in supporting the nation, farmers in the state have overused vital natural resources such as fertile land and water, making it necessary to move beyond the existing cropping pattern. He stressed that diversification is now essential and pointed out that the Netherlands could play a key role in supporting this transition.
During a visit to the LT Foods facility in Rotterdam, the company highlighted its global operations across more than 80 countries and its connection with over one lakh farmers. Discussions focused on sustainable farming practices and expanding the global reach of Punjab’s basmati rice. Mann emphasised the importance of reducing pesticide usage to meet international standards and strengthen exports. Following the discussions, LT Foods agreed to set up the Centre of Excellence for Basmati in Punjab along with a pilot project for assured procurement and low pesticide cultivation.
The Chief Minister also called for stronger collaboration between Dutch companies and Punjab Agricultural University to advance research and sustainable farming practices. He pointed out that shrinking profit margins have made agriculture less viable for many farmers and noted that productivity gains from existing technologies have reached a plateau.
Mann also visited the Floriculture Auction Market at Aalsmeer, widely regarded as the world’s largest flower and plant marketplace. There, he observed the Dutch auction system and its integrated network of production, logistics and global distribution. He expressed interest in adopting similar models in Punjab to strengthen agricultural value chains and improve farmer earnings.
In meetings with officials from the Netherlands Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, he highlighted the strong agricultural partnership between India and the Netherlands. He sought cooperation in areas such as water efficient farming, precision agriculture, technology driven productivity improvements and sustainable practices. He also expressed interest in adopting advanced systems used in the Netherlands, including automation, artificial intelligence, drones and data driven crop management, along with innovations in greenhouse farming.
Highlighting the potential of greenhouse cultivation, Mann said it offers efficient use of water and energy, though it is best suited for high value crops. He also proposed partnerships between Punjab Agricultural University and leading Dutch institutions like Wageningen University and Research to promote innovation and knowledge exchange.
In discussions with the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers, Mann emphasised the need for structured collaboration to encourage long term engagement between Dutch businesses and Punjab. He noted that the evolving India European Union Free Trade Agreement could open new avenues for trade and investment, particularly in sectors such as information technology, dairy, food processing and agricultural value chains, including potato cultivation.
Inviting global investors, Mann said Punjab provides a supportive environment for business and encouraged Dutch companies to participate in upcoming agri tech and industrial initiatives. He also highlighted the state’s policy framework, including the Industrial and Business Development Policy 2026 and the FastTrack Punjab Portal, which ensures transparent and time bound approvals.
Reaffirming his government’s vision, Mann said Punjab is committed to building a modern, technology driven agricultural and industrial ecosystem that is sustainable and globally competitive.
