Mann eyes Dutch playbook to fix Punjab’s farm crisis

Chandigarh: Punjab is planning to set up a dedicated Horticulture Experience and Learning Center on the lines of the World Horti Center to boost crop diversification, after chief minister Bhagwant Singh Mann mooted the idea during his Netherlands visit on Monday.During the visit, Mann toured leading horticulture institutions, including the World Horti Center in Westland and Keukenhof in Lisse, to study best practices in sustainable agriculture, floriculture and high-efficiency farming. Officials said the proposed centre would bring together researchers, academia, industry and government stakeholders to drive innovation, skill development and adoption of sustainable practices.Calling it a "unique experience", Mann said the delegation was introduced to the Netherlands' integrated ecosystem of greenhouse and controlled-environment agriculture, where technology, research and policy have transformed farming into a high-productivity, sustainable sector.He said key learnings included greenhouse and indoor farming systems that improve yields, reduce water use and pesticide dependence, and enhance farmer incomes. "This can help Punjab push crop diversification and move farmers away from water-guzzling crops," he said.Mann also highlighted the role of automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, precision irrigation and water management practices such as rainwater harvesting and reuse in building climate-resilient agriculture. He said both sides explored collaboration in knowledge transfer and technology partnerships.At Keukenhof, the delegation studied a model where nearly 7 million flower bulbs are planted annually across 32 hectares and bloom in a tightly managed seasonal window. Mann said the visit offered insights into developing floriculture clusters, strengthening exports and promoting agri-tourism in Punjab.He also showcased the state's Industrial and Business Development Policy (IBDP) 2026, pitching Punjab as an innovation-driven hub for sustainable agriculture and global partnerships.