Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture

The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at promoting the comprehensive development of the horticulture sector in India. Launched in 2014, the scheme seeks to facilitate the growth and development of the horticulture sector in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

Objectives of MIDH

The primary objectives of MIDH are as follows:

• To enhance horticulture production and productivity
• To improve the quality of horticulture produce
• To promote diversification and intensification of horticulture production systems
• To create a network of infrastructure for post-harvest management and value addition
• To develop and promote new technologies in horticulture production and post-harvest management
• To strengthen the capacity of farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders in the horticulture sector

Funding of MIDH

Under this scheme, the central government contributes 60% of the total outlay for developmental programs in all states except those in the North East and Himalayas, where it contributes 90%. The remaining 40% is contributed by state governments. The scheme has an outlay of INR 10,000 crores for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26.

Implementation of MIDH

The scheme is implemented by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. The Department has set up a National Executive Committee (NEC) and State Executive Committee (SEC) for the effective implementation of the scheme at the national and state levels, respectively.

Activities under MIDH

MIDH covers all aspects of the horticulture value chain, from production to marketing. The scheme supports various activities, such as:

• Establishment of new orchards and gardens
• Rejuvenation of old and senile orchards
• Promotion of high-density plantation
• Promotion of protected cultivation
• Promotion of organic farming in horticulture crops
• Capacity building of farmers and entrepreneurs in horticulture production and post-harvest management
• Establishment of post-harvest infrastructure, such as packhouses, cold storages, and ripening chambers
• Establishment of processing units for value addition and export promotion

Promotion of market infrastructure, such as farmers’ markets and e-platforms for direct marketing

Centers of Excellence (CoEs) under MIDH

Till date, 49 Centers of Excellence (CoEs) have been established under this mission in various states via bilateral cooperation or research institutes. They act as training centers for the latest technology in the horticulture sector. The CoEs also demonstrate the best practices and technologies to the farmers and entrepreneurs in the region.in the horticulture sector. The CoEs also demonstrate the best practices and technologies to the farmers and entrepreneurs in the region.