India and Netherlands Discuss Deepening Agricultural Cooperation
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, held bilateral talks with Mr. Silvio Erkens, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature of the Netherlands, in New Delhi on 28th September 2026. The meeting focused on reviewing ongoing cooperation in the agriculture sector and strengthening agricultural cooperation by exploring new areas of collaboration. Both sides reiterated their resolve to enhance productivity through modern technology, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Key discussion points included the progress on establishment of 25 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in the agriculture and horticulture sectors. Both sides agreed to explore cooperation in the seed sector through a work plan outlining key areas of cooperation for a clear framework for effective implementation. In the area of agricultural innovation, both sides discussed identifying potential areas of cooperation, recognizing the significant progress and advancements made by both countries in this field.
The Dutch delegation included Mr. Marten van den Berg, Director General, and other senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, along with Ms. Marisa Gerards, Ambassador, and other officials from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in India. The Indian side included Shri Atish Chandra, Secretary, and Dr. M L Jat, Secretary, DARE, along with other senior officials of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.