Horticulture Cluster Development Programme (CDP) was launched recently.
Objective: To ensure holistic growth of horticulture,
Launched by: Ministry of Agriculture
Key takeaways
In a pilot phase, the programme will be implemented in 12 horticulture clusters covering 11 States/UTs.
It is a central sector programme.
Implemented by: National Horticulture Board (NHB) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
Aim: Growing and developing identified horticulture clusters to make them globally competitive.
The programme will benefit about 10 lakh farmers.
It is expected to attract an investment of Rs. 10,000 crore when implemented in all the 53 clusters.
It will address all major issues including pre-production, production, post-harvest management, logistics, marketing and branding.
Important value additions
Horticultural crops include:
Tree, bush and perennial vine fruits;
Perennial bush and tree nuts;
Vegetables (roots, tubers, shoots, stems, leaves, fruits and flowers of edible and mainly annual plants);
Aromatic and medicinal foliage, seeds and roots (from annual or perennial plants);
Cut flowers, potted ornamental plants, and bedding plants (involving both annual or perennial plants); and
Trees, shrubs, turf and ornamental grasses propagated and produced in nurseries for use in landscaping or for establishing fruit orchards or other crop production units.
