Horticulture Cluster Development Programme Launched

The Horticulture Cluster Development Programme (HCDP), a significant initiative aimed at advancing India’s horticulture sector, was recently launched by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar. This central sector programme is designed to bolster growth and enhance the global competitiveness of select horticulture clusters across the country. Entrusted with the implementation of this ambitious programme is the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will tackle a range of challenges that the sector faces.

Objective of the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme

The primary goal of the HCDP is to transform and elevate identified horticulture clusters to become leaders in production and exports, thereby achieving global recognition. The programme aims to address the entire value chain, including pre-production, production, post-harvest management, logistics, marketing, and branding. By doing so, it intends to resolve the persistent issues that hinder the sector’s performance and limit its potential on the international stage.

Implementation Strategy

The HCDP will be implemented through a strategic approach that focuses on geographical specialisation. The idea is to promote the development of clusters in a manner that is integrated and driven by market demands. This approach ensures that each cluster can specialize based on its unique strengths and available resources, leading to better quality produce and higher efficiency in operations.

Selection of Clusters

For the pilot phase of the HCDP, twelve horticulture clusters have been carefully selected. These clusters represent a diverse array of geographical regions and horticultural products. The selection process took into consideration various factors such as the current level of horticultural activity, potential for growth, and the ability to impact the local economy positively.

Expected Outcomes

The HCDP is anticipated to bring about several beneficial outcomes for the horticulture sector. It is expected to improve the productivity and quality of horticultural produce, thereby increasing the income of farmers involved in these clusters. Enhanced post-harvest management and better marketing strategies are also expected to reduce waste and increase the shelf life of produce, making it more appealing to both domestic and international markets.

Role of the National Horticulture Board

The National Horticulture Board (NHB) has been given the responsibility of overseeing the execution of the HCDP. The NHB will work closely with state governments, local agencies, and farmers to ensure that the objectives of the programme are met. Its role encompasses providing technical assistance, facilitating infrastructure development, and encouraging the adoption of best practices among farmers and other stakeholders.

Challenges and Solutions

The horticulture sector faces multiple challenges that the HCDP aims to address. These include issues related to inconsistent quality, lack of adequate infrastructure, and limited access to advanced technology. By focusing on specific clusters, the programme can provide targeted solutions and allocate resources more effectively. This includes setting up state-of-the-art facilities for processing and storage, introducing modern farming techniques, and establishing efficient supply chains.

Geographical Specialisation and Market-led Growth

A key aspect of the HCDP is leveraging geographical specialisation to drive growth. Each cluster will develop its unique identity based on the specific type of horticultural product it is known for. This specialisation will enable clusters to build a brand around their produce, attract better prices, and tap into niche markets. The market-led approach ensures that the development of clusters aligns with consumer preferences and market trends, leading to sustainable growth.

In conclusion, the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme represents a comprehensive effort to revitalize India’s horticulture sector. By addressing critical areas from production to marketing, the programme promises to usher in a new era of prosperity and global competitiveness for Indian horticulture.