Europe tour gives new momentum to Punjab, opens new opportunities for investment, farming and youth

Bhagwant Singh Mann’s recent visit to Netherlands and Finland has laid a strong foundation for giving a new direction to the development of Punjab. Describing the visit as “transformational”, the Chief Minister said that it has created huge opportunities for agriculture, industry and youth. This visit was an important effort to strengthen not only diplomatic but also economic and technical partnership.

Investment of Rs 1300 crore and promotion of industry

The biggest achievement of the tour was the announcement of investment of Rs 1300 crore by Zaika company. This investment will strengthen the high quality farming and food processing industry in Punjab. Apart from this, LT Foods also agreed to invest in Rajpura, which will open new opportunities for export and employment.

The Chief Minister said that foreign companies have shown keen interest in investing in Punjab, which is a big step towards making the state an investment hub.

Emphasis on modern farming and crop diversification

Modern agricultural techniques were discussed during a visit to the world famous Keukenhof and horticultural centers in the Netherlands. The Chief Minister said that through polyhouse technology it is possible to produce 100 kg tomatoes in one square metre, whereas in traditional farming it is only 6 kg.

Adoption of this technology in Punjab will help in crop diversification and increasing the income of farmers. Besides, possibilities of export of roses and other high value crops were also explored.

New avenues of innovation, startup and research

During the visit, companies like NXP Semiconductors showed interest in setting up research and development (R&D) centers in Punjab. Plans have also come forward to set up an innovation hub and horticulture training center in Mohali.

This initiative will help the state advance in the field of technology and startups, which will create new career options for the youth.

International cooperation in education and skills development

During the visit to Finland, the advanced education system there was studied. Academic cooperation with institutions like University of Helsinki was discussed. New avenues of partnership have opened up in the field of teacher training, child-centric education and skill development.

The Punjab government has already sent many teachers to Finland for training and this process will continue.

Sports and promotion of global identity

During the visit, the Chief Minister met Dutch hockey player Floris Jan Bovelander and discussed the promotion of hockey in Punjab. He also accepted the invitation to visit Punjab, which will give new energy to the sports culture in the state.