India Approves Rs 1,766-Cr Initiative to Boost Horticulture Exports, Farmer Income

The government has sanctioned a Clean Plant Programme with a budget of Rs 1,766 crore to enhance the quality of planting material for horticultural crops. This initiative aims to increase exports and boost farmers' income. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the approval of the Clean Plant Programme, emphasising its potential to improve farmers' income. The programme, managed by the Union Agriculture Ministry, targets virus infections in horticultural crops that impact productivity and quality.

Clean Plant Centres and Nurseries

Nine institutions will be established as clean plant centres under this programme. Additionally, 75 nurseries will replicate clean mother planting material. This initiative aims to improve crop productivity and quality while promoting diversification, thereby reducing risks for farmers.

Vaishnaw highlighted that horticultural exports have surpassed Rs 50,000 crore over the past decade. This growth has provided a significant source of income for farmers and nutrition for consumers. The Clean Plant Programme is expected to tackle issues related to poor-quality produce affecting exports and prices.

Boosting India's Competitiveness

The programme is designed to enhance India's competitiveness in the global horticulture market by addressing quality issues. Improved planting material will lead to better produce, which can fetch higher prices in international markets.

The initiative also aims to support crop diversification, which can mitigate risks for farmers by reducing dependency on a single crop. This diversification can lead to more stable incomes and better resilience against market fluctuations.

In summary, the Clean Plant Programme is a strategic move to improve the quality of horticultural crops in India. By addressing virus infections and enhancing planting material, the programme aims to boost exports and farmers' income while promoting crop diversification.