India and the Netherlands Explore Stronger Agricultural Partnership, Focus on Innovation and Seed Sector
By Suman Munshi,IBG NEWS
New Delhi, October 2, 2026: India and the Netherlands have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture, with a focus on modern technology, agricultural innovation, seed development, market access and horticultural advancement.
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan held bilateral discussions with Silvio Erkens, the Netherlands’ Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, in New Delhi on September 28, 2026. The meeting reviewed existing areas of cooperation and explored new opportunities to enhance productivity, promote innovation and facilitate the exchange of agricultural knowledge and expertise between the two countries.
25 Centres of Excellence in Focus
A key highlight of the discussions was the progress in establishing 25 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) across the agriculture and horticulture sectors. These centres are intended to facilitate the adoption of advanced farming technologies, promote modern cultivation practices and improve agricultural productivity.
Both countries discussed ways to advance this initiative and strengthen cooperation in technology transfer, research and the practical application of innovative agricultural methods.
Cooperation in Seed Development and Agricultural Innovation
The two ministers also explored opportunities to expand collaboration in the seed sector. They agreed to work towards a structured plan identifying priority areas of cooperation, with the objective of creating a clear framework for effective implementation.
Agricultural innovation was another major area of discussion. Recognising the technological progress achieved by both nations, the delegations considered identifying new areas for joint initiatives, research collaboration and knowledge sharing to address emerging challenges in agriculture.
The discussions also covered market access issues, reflecting the importance of improving opportunities for agricultural trade and strengthening commercial engagement between the two countries.
Senior Officials Participate in Bilateral Talks
The Dutch delegation included Marten van den Berg, Director General, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature. Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India, and other embassy officials were also present.
Representing India, Atish Chandra, Secretary, and Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), participated in the meeting alongside senior officials from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Advancing Sustainable and Technology-Driven Agriculture
The bilateral engagement reflects the continuing efforts of India and the Netherlands to build a stronger agricultural partnership through technological advancement, research, innovation and institutional cooperation.
With the proposed expansion of Centres of Excellence, closer engagement in the seed sector and the exploration of new avenues for agricultural innovation, the collaboration aims to support productivity improvements and strengthen knowledge exchange.
The discussions mark another step towards expanding agricultural ties between the two countries, with a shared emphasis on modern farming practices, innovation and sustainable agricultural development.
By Suman Munshi,IBG NEWS
