Representative image (AI-generated)
NEW DELHI: Leading Indian farmer associations are planning to collaborate with the Foundation for Critical Choices for India (FCCI) to gain exposure to advanced agricultural technologies in the Netherlands.The All India Kisan Coordination Committee (AIKCC) and the Bhartiya Kisan Coordination Committee (BKCC) are in discussions with FCCI to facilitate a technology-focused visit aimed at helping farmers learn modern farming practices, improved seed technology and advanced crop enhancement methods.Speaking on the initiative, AIKCC General Secretary Gunvant Patil highlighted the need for technological support for Indian agriculture. “Indian farmers urgently need technological innovation to accelerate development. We require better-quality seeds to enhance agricultural production. In many regions, farmers are still dependent on older seed varieties, which need significant improvement,” he said.He added that the association seeks to understand crop enhancement techniques for key staples such as cotton, rice and wheat.BKCC member Guni Prakash emphasized the importance of international exposure. “We will be meeting FCCI President Jasbir Singh to discuss opportunities for farmer associations, particularly from Punjab and Haryana, to visit the Netherlands. The objective is to learn about new agricultural technologies and advanced methods to improve crop quality and productivity,” he said.The comments were made during the FCCI-organised International Diaspora Conference, held on December 19–20 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. The two-day event brought together members of the Indian diaspora, policymakers, scholars and officials to discuss India’s development goals, with agriculture identified as a key sector.FCCI President Jasbir Singh welcomed the proposed collaboration and assured support, saying, “Knowledge exchange and technological cooperation are essential for the future of Indian agriculture.”The proposed partnership is expected to help bridge the technology gap in Indian farming and promote sustainable agricultural growth through international cooperation.