CM, Dutch envoy open Rs150-cr Rajpura feed plant

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Dutch Ambassador Marisa Gerards on Wednesday inaugurated De Heus Animal Nutrition India’s new feed factory in Rajpura.

Set up with an investment of Rs 150 crore, the unit has an installed capacity of 1.8 lakh metric tonnes (MT) annually, which can be expanded to 2.4 lakh MT. It houses two production lines — one for cattle and buffalo feed and another for poultry and pig feed.

Mann said the factory would generate employment, attract allied industries and benefit the transport sector given its location near the highway. He underlined that the plant follows international standards and ensures zero pollution discharge.

“We are also in talks with KLM and the aviation ministry to establish direct flights from Chandigarh to Amsterdam and other European hubs. This new facility further strengthens Punjab’s ties with the Netherlands,” Mann said.

He also lauded the Dutch for their hockey and soccer prowess, while appreciating company officials for donning Punjab’s traditional phulkari.

Mann said Punjab was also known for sporting activities. “Currently nine players in the Indian hockey team are from Punjab, not to mention that captains of Indian hockey and cricket teams – both men and women were also from the state,” he said.

The Chief Minister said Punjab was fast developing as a major industrial hub and Tata Steel plant was also coming up soon. Besides, other industrial units were also flourishing in the state.

According to officials, De Heus feed products are designed to promote animal health, reproductive cycles and consistent output — enhancing farmers’ income and profitability. The Rajpura plant alone is expected to create over 300 direct jobs and support hundreds of local suppliers and channel partners. With raw materials sourced domestically, it will also boost regional agri-businesses.

Co De Heus, chairman of the Board of Royal De Heus, said in the statement, “Royal De Heus is a family-owned enterprise, now in its fourth generation. It emphasises close partnerships with farmers and channel partners.”

“In India, the company complements its products with farmer extension services, on-farm training and access to global nutritional expertise, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable progress in

local communities.”