CLEAN PLANT PROGRAMME (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture)
Context: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister of India, has approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) with an outlay of Rs 1,766 crore. This initiative aims to revolutionize India's horticulture sector.
Clean Plant Programme (CPP)
- About: It is integrated into the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
- Proposed by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- Earlier announced: Budget 2023
- Aim: To enhance the quality and productivity of fruit crops across the nation.
- Components of the Clean Plant Programme
o Clean Plant Centres (CPCs): Establishment of nine advanced CPCs across India to provide virus-free planting materials and conduct advanced diagnostics.
o Certification and Legal Framework: Implementation of a comprehensive certification system under the Seeds Act 1966 to ensure quality, accountability, and traceability.
o Enhanced Infrastructure: Development of infrastructure support for large-scale nurseries to efficiently multiply clean planting material.
- Benefits of the Programme
o The programme aims to improve the quality and productivity of fruit crops in India, leading to better crop yields.
o Farmers will have access to high-quality, virus-free planting materials, which is expected to boost yields and incomes.
o The initiative will help strengthen India’s position as a global exporter, expanding market opportunities and increasing international trade share.
