In 2025-26, Karnataka is set to launch the Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme 2.0. This initiative aims to enhance technological access for farmers. An allocation of ₹95 crore has been designated for this purpose. The Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, emphasised the importance of horticulture in boosting farmers’ incomes. The scheme will focus on value addition and improved cropping patterns.
Implementation of the Scheme
The Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme 2.0 will facilitate the adoption of modern agricultural technologies. This includes advancements in processing and value addition. The goal is to ensure that farmers benefit from these innovations. The scheme will be rolled out with budget allocation, reflecting the government’s commitment to horticulture.
Knowledge Cell Establishment
A Knowledge Cell will be established in partnership with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology. This initiative will provide farmers with real-time data. Information will include crop health, production levels, and market conditions. Satellite technology will be leveraged to support these efforts. This data will empower farmers to make informed decisions.
Seed Bank Initiative
A seed bank will be created to conserve indigenous crops. This includes 20 Geographical Indication (GI) tagged varieties at risk of extinction. The seed bank will play a vital role in preserving biodiversity. It aims to protect these valuable crops for future generations.
Research and Conservation Activities
Research will focus on protecting the Byadagi chilli from various diseases. Measures will be taken to combat leaf-curl disease and thrips infestations. A financial allocation of ₹426 crore is earmarked for micro-irrigation schemes. This will support around 52,000 farmers in enhancing their irrigation practices.
Plant Protection Measures
The government has recognised the distress caused to areca nut growers due to leaf spot disease. An allocation of ₹62 crore will be directed towards plant protection measures. Additionally, the black-headed caterpillar infestation in coconut areas will be addressed. Scientific surveys will inform the necessary interventions.
Organic and Millet Hub
An Organic and Millet Hub will be established with a budget of ₹20 crore. This hub aims to promote organic farming and millet cultivation. The initiative will help bridge the supply-demand gap for these crops. It will also create market facilities for farmers, enhancing their economic prospects.
Overall Impact
The Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme
2.0 represents investment in Karnataka’s agricultural sector. It aims to integrate technology into farming practices. By supporting farmers through various initiatives, the scheme seeks to improve their livelihoods and ensure sustainable agricultural development.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of technological advancements on traditional farming practices in India.
- Explain the significance of seed banks in preserving agricultural biodiversity and food security.
- What are the challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming methods? Discuss with suitable examples.
- What is the role of government initiatives in promoting sustainable agriculture? How can these initiatives be improved?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of technological advancements on traditional farming practices in India.
- Technological advancements can enhance crop yields and efficiency through precision agriculture.
- Traditional practices may be disrupted, leading to loss of cultural heritage and knowledge.
- Access to data and modern tools can empower farmers but also requires training and education.
- Technology can create disparities between tech-savvy farmers and those reliant on traditional methods.
- Integration of technology must consider local conditions and sustainability to be effective.
2. Explain the significance of seed banks in preserving agricultural biodiversity and food security.
- Seed banks conserve genetic diversity, crucial for adapting to climate change and pests.
- They prevent extinction of indigenous and GI-tagged crops, maintaining cultural heritage.
- Seed banks serve as a resource for breeding programs to develop resilient crop varieties.
- They enhance food security by ensuring a diverse gene pool for future food production.
- Seed banks can support sustainable agriculture by promoting crop rotation and biodiversity.
3. What are the challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming methods? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Higher initial costs and investment in organic inputs can deter farmers from switching.
- Limited access to organic seeds and materials restricts organic farming practices.
- Knowledge gaps and lack of training on organic methods can hinder adoption.
- Market access and price premiums for organic produce may not be guaranteed, affecting profitability.
- Examples include challenges faced by smallholder farmers in transitioning from conventional to organic farming.
4. What is the role of government initiatives in promoting sustainable agriculture? How can these initiatives be improved?
- Government initiatives provide funding, resources, and education to support sustainable practices.
- Policies can incentivize the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and organic farming.
- Collaboration with research institutions enhances knowledge dissemination and innovation.
- Improvement areas include better targeting of subsidies and greater involvement of local communities.
- Monitoring and evaluation of initiatives can ensure effectiveness and adaptability to changing needs.
