Punjab to Get World-Class Horticulture Center on the Lines of Netherlands’ World Horti Center: CM Mann
Chandigarh, April 20,
In a significant development that promises to transform Punjab’s agriculture landscape, the state is set to establish a Dedicated Horticulture Experience and Learning Center modeled after the globally renowned World Horti Center ecosystem in the Netherlands.
This strategic initiative is the result of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s focused efforts during his ongoing investment promotion visit to the Netherlands.
During his visit on Monday, CM Mann visited leading horticulture institutions, including the World Horti Center (WHC) in Westland and the iconic Keukenhof in Lisse. He studied best practices in sustainable agriculture, floriculture, and high-efficiency farming systems, and proposed the establishment of a similar center in Punjab.
Speaking on the initiative, CM Mann said that the proposed center would serve as a hub bringing together researchers, academic institutions, industry partners, and government stakeholders to promote innovation, skill development, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural solutions in the state.
At the World Horti Center, he was received by CEO Puck van Holsteijn and Manager International Business Lenny Dijkshoorn, who gave him a detailed tour of the facility. The Chief Minister described the experience as highly insightful, highlighting the Netherlands’ integrated model of greenhouse and controlled-environment agriculture that combines technology, research, education, industry, and government support.
He noted that key learnings included advanced greenhouse systems that significantly enhance crop yields while ensuring efficient water usage, reduced pesticide dependency, and improved farmer incomes. CM Mann emphasized that these practices could help Punjab shift away from water-guzzling crops and accelerate crop diversification.
The Chief Minister also appreciated the role of automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and precision irrigation systems in optimizing plant growth and resource efficiency. He added that both sides explored avenues for collaboration, including knowledge transfer and technology partnerships, and reached an in-principle agreement.
watch…..ਆਪ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਦੇ 4 ਸਾਲ: ਗਾਰੰਟੀਆਂ ਪੂਰੀਆਂ, ਨਸ਼ੇ ਮੁਕਤ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਨੇੜੇ
Earlier, at Keukenhof — one of the world’s most iconic floriculture destinations — CM Mann was briefed on its unique operational model, where nearly 7 million flower bulbs are planted annually, creating a spectacular bloom over a 7–8 week period. He observed that the 32-hectare site represents a highly structured, export-oriented horticulture model integrating production, tourism, and global marketing.
He stated that the visit provided valuable insights for developing floriculture clusters, strengthening export linkages, and promoting agri-tourism in Punjab through a coordinated and market-driven approach.
CM Mann expressed confidence that the learnings from these visits will support Punjab’s transition towards high-value, technology-driven, and sustainable agriculture.
He also showcased the state’s Industrial and Business Development Policy (IBDP) 2026, which offers a comprehensive incentive framework, sector-specific policies, and a strong ease-of-doing-business ecosystem.
Through these engagements, the Chief Minister aims to build long-term technology-led partnerships and position Punjab as a progressive, innovation-driven, and globally competitive hub for sustainable agriculture.
