In 2005-06, the National Horticulture Mission was initiated as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at fostering comprehensive development in the horticulture sector. This involved tailored strategies based on regional distinctions. Subsequently, in 2014-15, the scheme was incorporated into the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
National Horticulture Mission
- Maximize the potential of horticulture by enhancing the production of various products, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, coconut, cashew nuts, plantation crops, spices, and medicinal aromatic plants.
- Foster comprehensive growth in the horticulture sector through tailored strategies that consider regional variations and specific area-based approaches.
- Boost horticulture production, ensuring better nutritional security and income support for farming households.
- Facilitate the coordination and harmonization of various existing and upcoming horticulture development initiatives for optimal results.
- Promote, advance, and disseminate both traditional and modern scientific knowledge and technologies to benefit the sector.
- Create employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers, with a particular focus on unemployed youth.
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is a comprehensive scheme aimed at fostering the overall growth of the horticulture sector. It encompasses a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, root & tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew, cocoa, and bamboo.
What are the objectives of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)?
Under this scheme, the Government of India (GOI) plays a significant role by contributing 85% of the total funding for development programs across states, excluding those in the North East and Himalayan regions. In these special cases, the GOI’s share increases to 100%. Similarly, the development of bamboo and programs initiated by entities such as the National Horticulture Board (NHB), Coconut Development Board (CDB), Central Institute for Horticulture (CIH) in Nagaland, and the National Level Agencies (NLA) receive full 100% support from the GOI. This collaborative approach ensures the comprehensive development of the horticulture sector in various regions of the country.
MIDH will have the following sub-schemes and area of operation:
| Sl. No. | Sub Scheme | Target group / area of operation |
| 1. | NHM | All states & UTs except states in NE and Himalayan Region. |
| 2. | HMNEH | All states in NE and Himalayan Region. |
| 3. | NBM | All states & UTs |
| 4. | NHB | All states & UTs focusing on commercial horticulture |
| 5. | CDB | All States and UTs where coconut is grown. |
| 6. | CIH | NE states, focusing on HRD and capacity building. |
Elevating farmers’ incomes
NHM has achieved noteworthy success in elevating farmers’ incomes, as evident in the following points:
- Horticulture Production Surge: Since National Horticulture Mission – NHM’s inception, there has been a substantial upsurge in horticulture crop production. Notably, fruit production has skyrocketed from 43.5 million tonnes in 2004-05 to a remarkable 97.4 million tonnes in 2019-20.
- Crop Diversification: National Horticulture Mission – NHM has effectively encouraged farmers to diversify their crops, emphasizing the cultivation of high-value produce like vegetables and fruits. This diversification strategy has enabled farmers to significantly augment their income by capitalizing on these crops in the market.
- Boost in Exports: National Horticulture Mission – NHM’s initiatives have facilitated the export of horticulture crops. By enhancing the quality of produce and providing support for export-related activities, National Horticulture Mission – NHM has enabled farmers to access international markets, thereby elevating their income.
In conclusion, National Horticulture Mission – NHM has played a pivotal role in promoting horticulture in India and has succeeded in bolstering farmers’ income. Nevertheless, there remains substantial room for improvement, and National Horticulture Mission – NHM should focus on devising a comprehensive strategy to enhance further productivity and income for horticulture farms across the country.
UPSC Mains PYQ
Q. Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers? (2018) (250 words)
