Contents
Introduction
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Government of India aimed at the holistic growth of the horticulture sector. This mission encompasses various components to support farmers and stakeholders in enhancing the production and productivity of horticultural crops.
Understanding the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is designed to promote the comprehensive development of the horticulture sector in India. It covers a wide range of horticultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, root and tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew, cocoa, and bamboo.
Sub-Schemes under MIDH
MIDH operates through two main sub-schemes:
- National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Implemented in all states and Union Territories except the North Eastern and Himalayan states/UTs. The funding pattern is 60:40 between the Central and State Governments.
- Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH): Implemented in the North Eastern and Himalayan states/UTs, including Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The funding pattern is 90:10 between the Central and State Governments.
Objectives of MIDH
The primary objectives of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture include:
- Promoting holistic growth of the horticulture sector through regionally differentiated strategies.
- Enhancing horticulture production, improving nutritional security, and increasing farmers’ income.
- Establishing convergence and synergy among multiple ongoing and planned programs for horticulture development.
- Promoting, developing, and disseminating technologies through a seamless blend of traditional wisdom and modern scientific knowledge.
- Creating employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled persons, especially unemployed youth.
Key Components of MIDH
The mission encompasses several components to achieve its objectives:
- Production and Productivity Improvement: Support for the production of quality planting material, area expansion, rejuvenation of old gardens, and protected cultivation.
- Post-Harvest Management and Marketing: Development of infrastructure for post-harvest management, including pack houses, cold storage, and marketing facilities.
- Research and Development: Support for research and development activities to enhance horticulture production and productivity.
- Capacity Building and Human Resource Development: Training and capacity building of farmers and stakeholders through various programs.
- Institutional Support: Strengthening of State Horticulture Missions (SHMs) and other institutions involved in horticulture development.
Benefits of MIDH
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture offers numerous benefits to farmers and stakeholders:
- Financial Assistance: Subsidies and financial support for various horticultural activities, including nursery development, area expansion, and infrastructure development.
- Technical Support: Access to technical guidance and support for adopting modern horticultural practices.
- Market Access: Improved access to markets through the development of marketing infrastructure and support for market linkages.
- Employment Generation: Creation of employment opportunities in the horticulture sector, especially for rural youth.
- Enhanced Income: Increased income for farmers through improved productivity and better market access.
Eligibility Criteria
The scheme is open to all farmers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders involved in horticulture activities across India. Specific eligibility criteria may vary based on the component and sub-scheme under MIDH. Interested individuals should consult the respective State Horticulture Missions or the official MIDH guidelines for detailed eligibility requirements.
How to Apply
Eligible individuals can apply for assistance under MIDH through the following steps:
- Contact State Horticulture Missions (SHMs): Reach out to the SHMs in your respective state for information on the application process and available components.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents, including land ownership records, identity proof, and project proposals, as applicable.
- Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the SHM or designated implementing agency.
- Project Approval and Implementation: Upon approval, implement the project as per the guidelines and avail the benefits under the scheme.
Conclusion
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is a comprehensive initiative by the Government of India to boost the horticulture sector’s growth and sustainability. By providing financial and technical support, MIDH empowers farmers and stakeholders to enhance productivity, access markets, and improve livelihoods. Eligible individuals are encouraged to take full advantage of this scheme to contribute to the nation’s horticultural development.
For more information and to apply, visit the official MIDH page and the myScheme Portal
