Major Initiative in Horticulture Sector: Horticulture Knowledge Center to be Established at Agricultural University

September 23, 2026

The Punjab government has taken a significant initiative to promote crop diversity and strengthen the horticulture sector in Punjab. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has approved the establishment of a Horticulture Knowledge Center at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This initiative is part of a ₹1,300 crore project aimed at expanding horticulture, strengthening its value chain, market access, and farmers’ incomes.

Target of 1.6 million hectares by 2036

Chairing a review meeting of the Horticulture Department, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the main objective of the project is to increase the area under horticulture and promote horticultural crops through a strong value chain infrastructure. He said that increased crop diversity will create opportunities for increased income for farmers.

Furthermore, adopting sustainable agricultural practices will also improve soil health and promote water conservation. The Punjab government has set a target of increasing the area under horticulture in Punjab to 1.6 million hectares by 2036. According to the Chief Minister, this will represent an increase of approximately 300 percent compared to the current level.

5.27 Lakh Hectares Under Horticulture

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that Punjab currently has 4.125 million hectares under cultivation. Of this, 5.27 lakh hectares are under horticulture, producing approximately 10.61 million metric tons. The horticulture sector includes fruits, vegetables, spices, aromatic plants, flowers, and other crops. The major fruits in the state include kinnow and guava, while the major vegetables include potatoes and peas. Beekeeping and mushroom production are also considered part of the horticulture sector.

Investment in Machinery, Research, and Marketing

The proposed ₹1,300 crore project, in collaboration with JICA, is expected to involve investments in areas such as machinery, infrastructure, marketing, seeds, and research. The Punjab government’s focus is on developing a sustainable horticulture value chain. Under this initiative, focus will be placed on diversifying and improving nurseries to increase the availability of high-quality and profitable plants, developing post-harvest management facilities, and improving farmers’ market access.

Knowledge Center to be Established at Punjab Agricultural University

The Horticulture Knowledge Center to be established at Punjab Agricultural University will provide institutional support for research, technical knowledge, capacity building, and the adoption of modern horticultural techniques. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that this center is expected to help strengthen the entire horticulture ecosystem, from improved planting material and modern cultivation to post-harvest management, marketing, and market access.

Focus on Sustainable Agriculture and Technical Support

The project will also emphasize strengthening extension services and the technical support system. The government aims to encourage farmers to adopt agricultural practices that conserve natural resources like water and soil, while also providing better economic opportunities. Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Ravi Bhagat, Secretary of the Agriculture Department Arshdeep Singh Thind, and other senior officials were present at the meeting.