India's Horticulture Sector Set for Transformation with Rs 1,766 Crore Clean Plant Programme

The Union Cabinet has approved the Rs 1,766 crore Clean Plant Programme to enhance the quality and productivity of India's fruit crops. This initiative aims to address virus infections in horticultural crops through nine Clean Plant Centres, certification systems, and infrastructure support. The programme benefits farmers, nurseries, consumers, and exports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Union Cabinet has approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) with a Rs 1,766 crore budget, revolutionizing India's horticulture sector.

Announced in the Budget speech by the finance minister in February 2023, this initiative aims to improve fruit crop quality and productivity nationwide. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that CPP will combat virus infections affecting horticultural crops.

The programme includes nine world-class Clean Plant Centres with advanced diagnostic therapeutics, tissue culture labs, and a robust certification system under the Seeds Act 1966. It also supports large-scale nurseries for efficient multiplication of clean planting material.

(With inputs from agencies.)