India and the Netherlands have reiterated their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, with a focus on modern technology, innovation, knowledge sharing and sustainable development. The issue was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Mr. Silvio Erkens, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature of the Netherlands, in New Delhi on September 28, 2026.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to review the progress of existing agricultural cooperation and identify new areas where the two countries can work together. The discussions highlighted the importance of adopting advanced technologies and innovative approaches to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen the overall agriculture and horticulture sectors.
A major focus of the talks was the progress being made towards establishing 25 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in agriculture and horticulture. These centres are expected to contribute to the exchange of technical expertise, modern agricultural practices and innovative approaches between the two countries. The initiative reflects the shared interest of India and the Netherlands in strengthening agricultural capabilities through institutional cooperation and technology-driven solutions.
The two sides also discussed opportunities for greater collaboration in the seed sector. India and the Netherlands agreed to explore cooperation in this area through a dedicated work plan. The proposed framework is expected to identify key areas of partnership and provide a structured approach for implementing mutually agreed activities.
Seed technology and quality planting material are important components of efforts to improve agricultural productivity. Cooperation in this field could facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise and support the development and adoption of improved agricultural practices.
Agricultural innovation was another important subject discussed during the meeting. Both countries acknowledged the significant progress made in innovation and technology and explored the possibility of identifying specific areas for future cooperation. The discussions reflected the shared understanding that research, innovation and knowledge exchange can play an important role in addressing emerging challenges in agriculture.
India and the Netherlands have maintained cooperation in agriculture and allied areas, with partnerships focusing on technology transfer, capacity building and the introduction of modern farming techniques. The latest discussions are aimed at further strengthening this partnership and expanding collaboration into new areas of mutual interest.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both countries. The Dutch delegation accompanying Minister Silvio Erkens included Mr. Marten van den Berg, Director General, along with other senior officials from the Netherlands Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature. Ms. Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in India, and officials from the Dutch Embassy also participated in the discussions.
Representing India alongside Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan were Shri Atish Chandra, Secretary, and Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), along with other senior officials of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
The bilateral engagement underlined the importance both countries attach to strengthening agricultural cooperation through practical initiatives and institutional partnerships. The focus on Centres of Excellence, seed-sector collaboration and agricultural innovation is expected to provide new opportunities for knowledge sharing and technological cooperation.
The discussions also reaffirmed the shared objective of making agriculture more productive and technology-oriented. By combining expertise, research capabilities and innovative practices, India and the Netherlands are seeking to build stronger cooperation that can support farmers and contribute to the future development of the agriculture and horticulture sectors.
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Author: Shivam
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