In a significant move aimed at strengthening India’s agricultural sector through global collaboration, leading farmer associations are set to work closely with the FCCI to gain technical expertise and exposure to advanced farming technologies from the Netherlands.

Two major farmer bodies—the All India Kisan Coordination Committee (AIKCC) and the Bhartiya Kisan Coordination Committee (BKCC)—are currently in dialogue with the FCCI to facilitate a technology-focused visit to the Netherlands. The proposed initiative seeks to provide Indian farmers with knowledge-based exposure to modern agricultural practices, improved seed technology, and advanced crop enhancement methods.

Speaking on the need for immediate technological support, Gunvant Patil, General Secretary of AIKCC, emphasized the challenges faced by Indian farmers due to outdated inputs.
“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,” Patil said.
He added that the association aims to collaborate with FCCI to better understand crop enhancement techniques across key sectors such as cotton, rice, wheat, and other staple crops.

Echoing similar sentiments, Guni Prakash, a member of BKCC, highlighted the importance of international exposure in transforming Indian agriculture.
“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 understand new agricultural technologies and learn about advanced methods of improving crop quality and productivity,” Prakash stated.

These views were expressed during The Foundation for Critical Choices for India (FCCI)–organised two-day International Diaspora Conference, held on December 19 and 20, 2025, at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The conference brought together prominent members of the Indian diaspora, policymakers, senior government officials, scholars, and thought leaders to deliberate on India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047, with agriculture identified as a critical pillar of sustainable growth.
Responding to the proposed collaboration, FCCI President Jasbir Singh welcomed the initiative and assured full cooperation.
“We welcome the farmer associations and will extend all possible support to facilitate this collaboration. Knowledge exchange and technological cooperation are essential for the future of Indian agriculture,” Singh said.

The proposed partnership is seen as a step toward bridging the technology gap in Indian farming and fostering sustainable agricultural growth through international cooperation.