Horticulture, encompassing the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, and medicinal plants, plays a crucial role in Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural economy. The state, with its diverse agro-climatic zones, is naturally suited for horticulture and has immense potential for growth in this sector. In recognition of the importance of horticulture in enhancing agricultural productivity, generating employment, and promoting sustainable farming practices, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has introduced several initiatives and facilities aimed at the development of the horticulture sector.
Here are some of the major facilities and initiatives provided by the Government of Uttar Pradesh for the development of horticulture in the state:
1. Financial Support and Subsidies
The state government offers various financial incentives and subsidies to encourage farmers to take up horticulture as a profitable venture.
a) Subsidy for Horticulture Plantation and Infrastructure
Farmers can avail of subsidies for planting fruit-bearing trees, setting up orchards, and developing infrastructure for horticultural activities. The subsidies are offered for activities like:
- Plantation of fruit crops (e.g., mango, guava, pomegranate, citrus)
- Vegetable cultivation and greenhouse farming
- Nursery development for quality seedlings
- Drip irrigation systems and micro-irrigation systems to improve water efficiency in horticulture crops.
The government provides financial assistance through various schemes, ensuring that farmers can afford high-quality inputs and modern farming techniques.
b) Capital Investment Subsidies for Processing Units
The Uttar Pradesh government encourages the establishment of horticultural processing units by offering capital investment subsidies. These units help in the value addition of horticultural products like juices, jams, pickles, and canned products. Such units also create employment opportunities and provide a market for locally grown fruits and vegetables.
2. Horticulture Promotion Schemes
a) Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
The Government of India’s Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is implemented by the state government to promote the holistic development of the horticulture sector. Under this mission, various schemes are available for different horticultural activities:
- Development of Horticultural Crops: Financial support for the cultivation of horticultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and spices, through various schemes.
- Post-Harvest Management: Assistance for establishing facilities such as cold storage, pack houses, and ripening chambers to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the shelf life of produce.
- Market Linkages and Value Addition: The scheme provides funds to build infrastructure for marketing horticultural produce and for value addition in the form of processing and packaging.
b) State Horticulture Mission (SHM)
The Uttar Pradesh Government’s State Horticulture Mission complements the MIDH at the state level, focusing on promoting the growth of horticultural crops. The mission provides financial assistance for:
- High-density plantation of fruit crops
- Development of horticultural nurseries
- Strengthening horticulture research and extension services
- Establishment of collection and processing centers to ensure better market access for farmers.
3. Research and Development Support
Research and development play a key role in advancing the horticulture sector. The Government of Uttar Pradesh has established research centers, training facilities, and agricultural universities to promote innovations in horticulture.
a) Uttar Pradesh State Horticulture Research and Development Institute (UPSHRDI)
The Uttar Pradesh State Horticulture Research and Development Institute plays a vital role in improving the productivity and quality of horticultural crops through research. The institute focuses on:
- Development of new varieties of fruits, vegetables, and flowers that are more resistant to pests and diseases and are adaptable to the state’s climatic conditions.
- Post-harvest management technologies to reduce wastage and improve storage life.
- Water conservation techniques and efficient irrigation practices for water-scarce regions.
b) Training and Awareness Programs
The government organizes various training programs, workshops, and extension services for farmers and horticulturists to improve their skills in modern horticulture practices. These programs cover topics such as:
- Grafting and pruning techniques
- Soil health management
- Pest and disease management
- Post-harvest handling and packaging techniques
These training programs are often conducted in collaboration with agricultural universities and research institutes to ensure that farmers receive updated knowledge and practical solutions.
4. Irrigation Support and Water Conservation Techniques
Water is a critical input in horticulture, and the Uttar Pradesh government has recognized the importance of improving irrigation systems for horticultural crops.
a) Micro-Irrigation Systems
The government promotes the use of micro-irrigation systems such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation to optimize water usage. These systems are particularly beneficial for water-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables. Farmers can avail of subsidies for installing these systems, which help reduce water wastage and ensure consistent crop growth, especially during dry spells.
b) Rainwater Harvesting and Water Conservation
Under various schemes, the government also supports rainwater harvesting and other water conservation practices to help farmers better manage water resources for their horticultural needs. These systems reduce the dependency on groundwater and ensure sustainable water use.
5. Cold Chain Infrastructure and Post-Harvest Management
The government emphasizes the importance of reducing post-harvest losses and improving the shelf life of horticultural products. To achieve this, the state has made significant investments in cold chain infrastructure.
a) Cold Storage and Refrigerated Warehouses
To address the problem of perishable goods and high post-harvest losses, Uttar Pradesh supports the establishment of cold storage units and refrigerated warehouses. These facilities allow farmers to store their produce for longer periods and access markets at a time when prices are more favorable.
- Subsidies for Cold Storage: The government offers subsidies to farmers and entrepreneurs for setting up cold storage units, making it easier for small and medium-scale farmers to preserve their produce.
- Pack Houses and Ripening Chambers: These facilities help in sorting, grading, and packaging fruits and vegetables for the market, thus adding value to the produce and reducing wastage.
b) Processing and Value Addition Units
The government promotes the establishment of processing units for horticultural products like fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This includes:
- Juice and pulp processing units
- Pickling and canning units
- Herbal and medicinal plant processing
Financial support and technical assistance are provided for setting up these processing units, which help create jobs, improve market access, and increase farmers’ incomes through value-added products.
6. Market Linkages and Support for Horticultural Products
The government works to improve market access for horticultural products, which often face challenges due to fluctuating prices and lack of direct market linkages.
a) Farmers’ Market and Mandis
The government facilitates the establishment of farmers’ markets and mandis (marketplaces) to directly connect horticulture producers with consumers. These markets allow farmers to sell their products without the intervention of middlemen, ensuring they get fair prices for their produce.
b) Export Promotion and Branding
Recognizing the potential of horticultural products for export, the government encourages the export of fruits, vegetables, and processed products to international markets. Initiatives include:
- Export promotion schemes for horticultural produce
- Branding of local produce to enhance market recognition and value
7. Incentives for Organic Farming in Horticulture
In line with the growing demand for organic produce, the Uttar Pradesh government has launched several initiatives to promote organic farming in the horticulture sector.
- Subsidies for Organic Inputs: The government offers financial assistance for the purchase of organic fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs for organic farming.
- Certification Support: Farmers are provided with support for obtaining organic certification, which opens up new market opportunities for them.
Conclusion
The Government of Uttar Pradesh has introduced a wide range of facilities and initiatives to promote the growth and development of horticulture in the state. By providing financial support, improving infrastructure, fostering research and innovation, promoting water conservation, and creating market linkages, the government is working to create a sustainable and profitable environment for horticultural production. These efforts not only contribute to the economic development of the state but also improve the livelihoods of farmers, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase the availability of fresh produce in the market.
With these comprehensive facilities, Uttar Pradesh is well on its way to becoming a leader in horticulture, benefiting both its farmers and consumers alike.
