Chandigarh, April 28
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday presented a report card of his Netherlands-Finland visit, asserting that the Punjab Government has secured concrete global partnerships in agriculture, industry, and innovation that will directly benefit farmers, youth and the state’s economy.
Highlighting a ₹1300 crore JICA-backed push, strong interest from global companies and advanced agri-tech collaborations from Keukenhof to Finland, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said these strategic tie-ups will accelerate crop diversification, attract investment, and firmly position Punjab as a global hub for innovation, R&D, and high-value farming.
Addressing a press conference, Mann said, “On day one the Ambassador of India to Netherlands welcomed the delegation adding that on April 19 the delegation had visited the world-renowned horticulture model Keukenhof, where 40,000 visitors come daily, and interacted with representatives of this place.”
The Chief Minister added, “The visit was aimed at exploring partnership opportunities in the agriculture sector and discussed collaboration for the development of horticulture adding that possibility of exporting rose from Punjab was explored.” He further said, “Apart from investment worth ₹1300 crore being made by JICA this tie up will play a key role in giving major boost to crop diversification.”
Mann said, “Likewise, the visit was also aimed at promoting industrial investment and partnerships, strengthening collaboration in education and research exchange with focus on technology exchange and plan for the holistic development of Punjab.” He added, “During the parleys the possibility of joint projects in modern agricultural techniques and sustainable farming was explored and it was agreed that cooperation for high-value crops and export-quality production would be done adding that the visit opened avenues for new industrial investments and tie-ups along with opportunities for skill development and educational exchange.”
Mann further said, “Agreement was also made on technology and innovation exchange with emphasis on building strategic partnerships adding that Netherlands is famous for vertical agriculture which can be replicated in the state.” He added, “On April 20 the delegation visited the World Horticulture Center and met representatives of Netherlands India Chamber of Commerce & Trade besides having interaction with the Punjabi community adding that the delegation was apprised about indoor production of 100 kg tomatoes from one square metre of indoor cultivation instead of six kg on outdoor land.”
