Rosy future for Punjab’s Dutch partnership: CM

Chandigarh: The Netherlands is considering Punjab as a primary rose supplier to replace Ethiopia, a move that could transform the state into a global floriculture hub, chief minister Bhagwant Mann has announced on Tuesday.Following a diplomatic mission to the Netherlands and Finland, Mann said Dutch importers identified Punjab as a cost-effective alternative for floral markets. The state's horticulture director is now coordinating with Dutch officials to finalise import logistics.The initiative builds on an existing partnership where the Keukenhof gardens in Lisse utilise flower seeds from Punjab's Amargarh region. "They import roses from Ethiopia currently, but were open to Punjab once we presented the state as a viable, cheaper alternative," Mann said.The shift coincides with a March loan agreement from the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the "project for promoting sustainable horticulture in Punjab." Mann said these combined efforts would advance crop diversification.The delegation's European tour also secured several industrial investment commitments. NXP expressed interest in establishing a semiconductor research and development centre in the state. LT Foods, owners of the Daawat rice brand, agreed to invest in an agribusiness facility, likely in Rajpura. Mann proposed agri-tourism collaborations between Dutch cheese farms and Punjab's dairy co-operative, Verka.The two sides also approved plans for a horticulture experience and learning centre in Punjab, alongside a proposed research hub in Mohali. In Finland, the delegation focused on professional development for teachers. Education minister Harjot Singh Bains confirmed a fourth batch of primary teachers will visit the University of Turku in May. Punjabi University, Patiala, will assess the impact of this international training on local classrooms.Mann also met Dutch hockey legend Floris Jan Bovelander to discuss boosting the sport in Punjab. Bovelander, the penalty-corner specialist behind Holland's 1996 Olympic gold medal and 1990 World Cup trophy, might visit Punjab before it hosts its first Asian Champions Trophy. MSID:: 130581419 413 |
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