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Source- This post on Clean Plant Programme (CPP) has been created based on the article “Cabinet approves the Clean Plant Programme under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture” published in “PIB” on 10 August 2024.
Why in News?
The Union Cabinet recently approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
About Clean Plant Programme (CPP)
| Aspects | Description |
| About | The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) aims to enhance the quality and productivity of fruit crops across the nation. |
| Initiative by | Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
| Implemented by | The programme will be implemented by the National Horticulture Board in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). |
| Core Components of the CPP | 1. Clean Plant Centers (CPCs): Nine world-class CPCs will be set up across India. i) These centers will have advanced labs for diagnostics, therapy, and tissue culture. ii) The CPCs will be located in regions suited for specific fruit crops, such as Grapes (Pune), Temperate Fruits like Apple, Almond, and Walnut (Srinagar & Mukteshwar), Citrus Fruits (Nagpur & Bikaner), Mango, Guava, Avocado (Bangalore), Mango, Guava, Litchi (Lucknow), Pomegranate (Sholapur) and Tropical/Sub-Tropical Fruits in Eastern India 2. Certification and Legal Framework: A strong certification system will be put in place to ensure that planting materials are produced and sold with full accountability. This system will be supported by regulations under the Seeds Act of 1966. 3. Enhanced Infrastructure: Large nurseries will receive support to develop the necessary infrastructure for multiplying clean planting materials efficiently. |
| Importance of the CPP | 1. Sustainability: The programme aligns with initiatives like Mission LiFE and One Health, promoting eco-friendly farming practices. 2. Self-Reliance: It reduces the need for importing planting materials, making India more self-sufficient. 3. Global Leadership: CPP will help position India as a leading exporter of high-quality fruits, driving transformative changes in the horticulture sector. |
Key Benefits of the Clean Plant Programme (CPP)
1. For Farmers: Farmers will get access to virus-free, high-quality planting material. This will lead to better crop yields and higher income opportunities.
2. For Nurseries: Nurseries will benefit from easier certification processes and better infrastructure support.This will help them grow and distribute clean planting materials efficiently.
3. For Consumers: Consumers will enjoy better-tasting, virus-free fruits with improved nutritional value.
4. For Exports: The production of high-quality, disease-free fruits will strengthen India’s position as a top global fruit exporter, opening up more international market opportunities.
5. Inclusive Approach: The programme will ensure that all farmers, regardless of their land size or economic status, can access clean plant material. Special focus will be given to involving women farmers in planning and implementing the programme, giving them access to resources and training.
6. Region-Specific Development: The programme will develop clean plant varieties and technologies suited to different agro-climatic conditions across India.
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