Mission For Integrated Development Of Horticulture (MIDH) – Govt Scheme Boosting Farmers’ Income & Modern Horticulture In India

MIDH stands for the Mission for Integrated Development of the Horticulture scheme supported by the Central Government and initiated in 2014 under the Green Revolution – Krishonnati Yojana. The major goal is to help in the enhancement of the horticulture industry of India by providing funds and using better technologies, as well as machinery. Crop focus comprises fruits and vegetables, spices, flowers and bamboo with an aim at raising production, farmers’ income and food diversity.

This article will cover attributes like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture objectives, the Integrated Development of Horticulture, and much more.

Also Read: Horticulture In North Eastern Hills: Horticulture Mission.

What Is The Mission Of The Integrated Development Of Horticulture?

MIDH is a government action plan designed to support the all-round development of the horticulture value chain, including production, post-harvest handling, marketing and capacity development. Some of the crops that are nurtured include: fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers, among others.

Sub-Schemes And Area Of Operation

MIDH is not a single programme but a combination of targeted sub-schemes spread across different regions. The table below explains their area of operation for easy reference.

Also Read: Learn How MIS-PSS Protects Farmers And Promotes Agricultural Stability

Activities For Which Financial Assistance Is Provided

Financial assistance is provided for the development of horticultural crops, post-harvest management, cold storage facilities, and setting up nurseries for the production of quality planting material.

• Establishing the growth of nurseries and tissue culture units.

• Residential landscape for utilising more space in orchards, gardens and flowers.

• Restyling worn-out and low-yielding gardens.

• Encouraging protected agriculture using poly-house and greenhouse:

• Promoting organic farming and organic certification.

• Designing water sources and systems of watershed management.

• Favouring beekeeping and pollination since it helps in carrying out pollination activities.

• Introduction of horticulture mechanisation.

• Accomplishing post-harvest and marketing amenities.

Key Elements Of The MIDH Mission

The key elements of MIDH include the creation of infrastructure, skill development, research and development, and the promotion of organic farming in horticulture.

• Baseline survey as well as participation of Panchayati Raj institutions.

• The strategic, output-oriented production plans are more cluster-based and have been driven by the demands made on them.

• Application of inputs such as high-density land, plastic, and improved rising cycles.

• Production entitlement and capacity development of farmers.

• Demonstration increased efficiency, thus the mechanisation of tasks, increasing the representation of modern techniques.

• Proper infrastructure of cold chains and marketing networks.

• Systematic supervision and database creation.

Also Read: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samrudhi Kendras

Features Of The Integrated Development Of Horticulture

Every scheme has unique aspects that make it stand out. Here are the major features of MIDH that highlight its scope and effectiveness.

• Its focus is on working productivity and the enhancement of product quality standards.

• Extension services for the improvement of post-harvest management and marketing equipment.

• The process for skill development for the rural youths.

• To increase scale efficiency, the SWC strengthened farmer groups.

What Are The Benefits Of The Integrated Development Of Horticulture?

From farmers to consumers, MIDH brings advantages across the chain. The points below explain the key benefits that make this scheme impactful.

• Higher crop yields and more speciality crops, which are high-value horticulture crops.

• Thus, increasing the shelf life of the perishable products through an improved cold chain facility.

• Increased post-harvest management, processing and marketing.

What Is The Application Process For The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)?

Farmers and other stakeholders can apply by submitting their proposals to state horticulture departments or district horticulture offices, which then review and forward them for approval. Below is the step-by-step guide to applying for this government scheme. To understand it better, read the following points carefully:-

Online Process:

Step 1: Visit the HORTNET Portal.

Step 2: New users should choose the state and log in using the user type “Department User.

Step 3: Members can register just by completing their details themselves.

Step 4: Fill out the farmer registration form to the end and send it.

Step 5: Remember to write down your Unique ID for application and grievance tracking.

Also Read: What To Know About Agriculture Research Stations And Laboratories Scheme In India?

Offline Process:

Step 1: You should then contact the District or Block Horticulture Officer.

Step 2: Enclose your application and project concept.

Step 3: The State Horticulture Mission will go through the proposal and give it final approval.

Step 4: It is important to note that those who are approved for the assistance do get approved for the funds.

Challenges For Integrated Development of Horticulture

While MIDH has promising outcomes, it also faces certain hurdles in implementation. Let’s look at the main challenges that need attention for its success.

• High levels of post-harvest that result from poor handling infrastructure.

• Lack of effective supply chain management/ link, and marketing.

• Relatively low usage of new technology by most farmers.