India’s Horticulture Boost: Expansion of Litchi Cultivation
Hailing traditionally from Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Litchi cultivation has seen a significant expansion across 19 Indian states. A major contribution to this development is attributed to the National Research Centre on Litchi (NRCL) situated in Muzaffarpur.
Key Facts about Litchi
A member of the Sapindaceae family, Litchi is known for its delicious and juicy edible flesh. The fruit thrives in sub-tropical climates that offer moist conditions. Favoring low elevation territories, Litchi grows optimally at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. The ideal soil for Litchi cultivation is deep, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter. However, Litchi cultivation is sensitive to extreme temperatures and heavy rainfall, especially during flowering season, which can interfere with pollination and negatively impact the crop.
Geographical Expansion of Litchi Cultivation
In India, commercial Litchi cultivation was initially confined to the northern foothills of the Himalayas, from Tripura to Jammu & Kashmir and plains of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But due to growing demand and viability, the cultivation has extended to other states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. With Bihar alone accounting for nearly 40% of India’s Litchi production, followed by West Bengal (12%) and Jharkhand (10%). Globally, India holds the position of the second largest producer of Litchi, trailing behind China.
Understanding Horticulture
Horticulture, a combination of science, art, and practice, involves cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, ornamental plants, and other crops. It covers a wide range of activities related to plant cultivation, management, propagation, and improvement for human utilization and pleasure.
Government Initiatives for Horticulture Enhancement
Certain initiatives like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme have been introduced for the overall growth of the horticulture sector. MIDH is a centrally sponsored scheme with the objective of holistic growth of horticulture covering fruits, vegetables, and other areas. The Government of India contributes 60% of the total outlay for developmental programmes in all the states (except Northeastern and Himalayan states where GOI contributes 90%) & 40% is contributed by the state governments. On the other hand, the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme aims at growing and developing identified horticulture clusters to make them globally competitive.
Horticulture and UPSC Civil Services Examination
Understanding horticulture plays a crucial role in preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. One of the previous year’s questions included assessing the role of the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in enhancing the production, productivity, and income of horticulture farms, and its success in increasing farmers’ income.