From Field to Greenhouse: The MIDH Scheme is Transforming Indian Horticulture

The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme, implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare in all the States/UTs by respective State government departments, provides 50% of the maximum permissible cost for protected cultivation, including greenhouse farming. The scheme aims to promote holistic development of horticulture in India, and the maximum area per beneficiary varies depending on the component. An additional 2.51 lakh hectare area has been covered under protected cultivation since the inception of the scheme in 2014-15 until 2021-22.

Overview

The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare is implementing the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme in all States/UTs for holistic development of horticulture in India. An additional area of 2.51 lakh hectare has been covered under protected cultivation since the inception of the scheme in 2014-15 until 2021-22, with an expenditure of Rs. 2963.91 crore reported by the States. The scheme provides assistance for the promotion of protected cultivation, including greenhouse farming, through various interventions. The scheme provides 50% of the maximum permissible cost for green house structure, shade net house, walk-in tunnels, anti-bird/anti-hail nets, and plastic mulching. The maximum area per beneficiary is 4000 sq. m. for green house structure, shade net house and walk-in tunnels, 1000 sq. m. for plastic tunnels and 5000 sq. m. for anti-bird/anti-hail nets. Since the scheme is being implemented by State Governments, beneficiary data is available with the States.

By taking advantage of this scheme, farmers can improve their horticulture practices, potentially leading to an increase in yield and income. Beneficiary data for this scheme is available with the State Governments as the scheme is being implemented by respective State’s department. Overall, this scheme can contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in India and benefit farmers by providing support for the promotion of protected cultivation.

Important points

• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare implements the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme in all States/UTs for horticulture development.
• An additional area of 2.51 lakh hac. has been covered under protected cultivation since inception of the scheme in 2014-15 until 2021-22.
• Rs. 2963.91 crore has been reported by the States as expenditure under the scheme.
• The scheme provides 50% of the maximum permissible cost for green house structure, shade net house, walk-in tunnels, anti-bird/anti-hail nets, and plastic mulching.
• Maximum area per beneficiary is 4000 sq. m. for green house structure, shade net house and walk-in tunnels, 1000 sq. m. for plastic tunnels, and 5000 sq. m. for anti-bird/anti-hail nets.

Conclusion

The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare offers considerable assistance in promoting protected cultivation, including greenhouse farming, through various interventions. With a focus on horticulture development, the scheme has covered an additional area of 2.51 lakh hectare and reported expenditure of Rs. 2963.91 crore. Indian farmers are benefited through the provision of financial assistance for the establishment of greenhouse structures, shade net houses, walk-in tunnels, anti-bird/anti-hail nets, and plastic mulching. This scheme empowers farmers with the opportunity to increase their crop yield, optimize crop productivity, and generate higher income through the adoption of modern cultivation practices. 

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.