Chief Minister Pushes for Horticulture and Food Processing in Madhya Pradesh
prativad 
Bhopal, August 2, 2024: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has emphasized the potential of horticulture and food processing to boost the state's economy and create employment opportunities. In a recent review meeting of the Horticulture and Food Processing Department, he issued several directives to promote these sectors.
Yadav stressed the importance of integrating horticulture and food processing with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to foster entrepreneurship and industrial growth across all districts. He also called for the formation of self-help groups to connect farmers and their families.
Key initiatives announced by the Chief Minister include:
- Establishing high-tech nurseries: Setting up modern nurseries in each division to provide quality plant material and training to farmers.
- Dedicated spice market: Developing a separate market for spices to capitalize on Madhya Pradesh's position as a leading spice-producing state.
- Promoting organic production: Encouraging organic cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, along with setting up dehydration plants and gamma radiation facilities.
- Branding regional produce: Undertaking special efforts to establish a national and international reputation for the state's oranges, bananas, betel leaves, garlic, and other agricultural products.
- Increasing department budget: Allocating more funds to the Horticulture and Food Processing Department to implement market-driven initiatives.
- Recognizing achievements: Honoring individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the horticulture and food processing sector.
Addressing farmers' concerns: The Chief Minister assured farmers of support and urged the department to organize workshops to educate them about modern agricultural techniques and government schemes. He emphasized the need to ensure that farmers receive fair returns for their produce.
Current status and future plans: The presentation given at the meeting highlighted the state's achievements in fruit and vegetable cultivation, as well as its ongoing efforts to promote horticulture through initiatives like the 'One Tree for Mother' campaign. The department has planted 1.8 million fruit-bearing trees so far.
Looking ahead: The Chief Minister's vision for the horticulture and food processing sector is ambitious and aims to transform rural livelihoods while strengthening the state's economy. By focusing on organic farming, value addition, and market linkages, Madhya Pradesh can become a leading player in the Indian agricultural landscape.
