India, Netherlands explore deeper agricultural cooperation, focus on seeds and innovation
New Delhi: India and the Netherlands have discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in agriculture, with a focus on seed-sector collaboration, agricultural innovation, market access and the establishment of Centres of Excellence.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held talks with his Dutch counterpart, Silvio Erkens, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, in New Delhi on September 28.
The discussions reviewed ongoing cooperation and explored new areas of partnership, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to improving agricultural productivity through modern technology, innovation and knowledge exchange, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.
The two countries reviewed progress on establishing 25 Centres of Excellence in agriculture and horticulture. They also agreed to explore cooperation in the seed sector through a dedicated work plan that would identify priority areas and provide a framework for implementation.
Agricultural innovation was another key area of discussion, with both sides considering potential fields for collaboration while recognising advances made by India and the Netherlands.
The Dutch delegation included Marten van den Berg, Director General, and senior officials from the ministry, along with Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Netherlands to India, and officials from the Dutch embassy.
The Indian delegation included Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra, DARE Secretary M L Jat and other senior officials of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
The talks are part of efforts by the two countries to strengthen agricultural ties through technology, research and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
