Punjab To Set Up Centre Of Excellence For Basmati

CHANDIGARH – Punjab is set to take a major step towards crop diversification and sustainable agriculture with the proposed establishment of a center of excellence for basmati during Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s ongoing visit to the Netherlands.

The initiative aims to strengthen farmers’ incomes and reduce overreliance on the wheat-paddy cycle, according to an official statement.

During his visit, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann explored best practices in agriculture and industry to benefit farmers, who have played a key role in making the country self-reliant in food production.

The Chief Minister said, “For the sake of the nation, farmers in Punjab have overexploited the state’s fertile land and water resources, making it essential to shift away from the wheat-paddy cycle.”

Emphasizing the way forward, he added, “For this purpose, a major push is needed to crop diversification and the Netherlands can duly help the state a lot in this noble cause.”

During his visit to the LT Foods facility in Rotterdam, the company said it has a presence in more than 80 countries and strong linkages with over one lakh farmers. The visit focused on sustainable farming practices and expanding Punjab’s basmati footprint globally.

Following the meeting, LT Foods agreed to establish a basmati center of excellence in Punjab, along with a pilot project for assured procurement and low-pesticide cultivation. (IANS)