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CHANDIGARH: In a major move to modernize the state’s agrarian economy, a high-level South Korean delegation met with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday. The meeting focused on establishing a robust framework for cooperation in smart farming, biotechnology, and advanced agricultural machinery. This engagement follows the Chief Minister’s high-impact visit to Seoul in December 2025, where he pitched Punjab as a future-ready investment destination.
Bridging the Gap with Smart Farming Technology
The discussion centered on how South Korea’s expertise can address the critical challenges facing Punjab’s farmers. Chief Minister Mann emphasized that shrinking landholdings have made traditional farming increasingly unviable for small and marginal families. He noted that land fragmentation has stripped the profitability from the sector for many. However, South Korea has successfully managed similar issues through vertical farming and automation.
Punjab is now keen to adopt these global best practices. The state government aims to attract South Korean investment specifically in small agricultural machinery. Because South Korea possesses proven expertise in high-yield farming on limited land, their models are highly relevant for Punjab. The Chief Minister highlighted that technology-driven solutions could turn farming back into a profitable profession.
Strengthening Industrial Ties and Biotechnology
Beyond field operations, the collaboration extends into the realms of biotechnology and seed technology. During the meeting, the delegation explored opportunities at the Pang-yo Techno Valley level of innovation. Punjab seeks to collaborate on the automation of farm machinery, including smart combine harvesters and transplanters.
The South Korean team expressed deep appreciation for Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and its conducive business environment. To further these ties, the Chief Minister formally invited the delegation to the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026. This flagship event will take place in Mohali from March 13 to 15. The summit serves as a platform to cement these partnerships into concrete industrial projects.
Economic Growth Through Global Partnerships
This diplomatic outreach is part of a broader strategy to position Punjab as a stable and transparent investment hub. By integrating South Korean digital ecosystems with Punjab’s hardworking workforce, the state expects a “symphony of technology and talent.” Moreover, the government has already facilitated over ₹1.37 lakh crore in serious on-ground investments recently.
Additionally, the visit included an industrial tour of the Swaraj Tractor Plant in Mohali. This provided the visitors with a firsthand look at Punjab’s existing manufacturing excellence. As the state moves toward the 2026 Investors’ Summit, the momentum for international cooperation continues to build. Consequently, these efforts are likely to result in new employment opportunities and a technological renaissance in the rural heartlands.