Indian Economy News

India and Netherlands Discuss Deepening Agricultural Cooperation

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Mr. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, held bilateral talks with the Netherlands’ Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, Mr. Silvio Erkens, in New Delhi on September 28, 2026, to review ongoing agricultural cooperation and explore new areas of partnership. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity through modern technology, innovation and knowledge exchange. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in agriculture and horticulture, including the establishment of Centres of Excellence (CoEs), cooperation in the seed sector and opportunities for agricultural innovation. The meeting provided an opportunity to assess progress under existing initiatives and identify areas for further engagement between the two countries, with an emphasis on improving productivity and expanding cooperation through technological advancements and the exchange of expertise.

Both sides reviewed progress on the establishment of 25 Centres of Excellence in the agriculture and horticulture sectors. They also agreed to explore cooperation in the seed sector through a work plan outlining key areas of collaboration and providing a clear framework for effective implementation. Agricultural innovation formed another important part of the discussions, with both countries considering potential areas of cooperation and recognising the significant advancements made in this field. The Dutch delegation included Director General Mr. Marten van den Berg, senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, and Ambassador of the Netherlands to India, Ms. Marisa Gerards, along with other Embassy officials.

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