Horticulture in India - NHB - National Horticulture Board

Horticulture is the branch of agriculture that deals with the cultivation, production, and management of fruits, vegetables, flowers, ornamental plants, and other plant-based products. It is a science and art that involves the science of plant growth, cultivation techniques, and the aesthetic design and maintenance of gardens and landscapes.

Horticulture encompasses various specialized areas, including:

1. Pomology

Pomology is the study of fruit production and cultivation. It focuses on the management of fruit-bearing plants, such as apple trees, citrus fruits, berries, and other fruit crops.

2. Olericulture

Olericulture is the branch of horticulture that deals with the production of vegetables. It includes the cultivation of a wide range of vegetables, such as tomatoes, carrots, lettuce, and cucumbers.

3. Floriculture

Floriculture involves the cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants for decorative purposes. It includes growing flowers for cut flower arrangements, potted plants, and landscaping.

4. Landscape Horticulture

Landscape horticulture involves the planning, design, and maintenance of landscapes, gardens, and parks. It includes selecting appropriate plants, arranging them aesthetically, and managing the landscape for beauty and functionality.

5. Postharvest Management

This aspect of horticulture deals with the handling, storage, and preservation of horticultural products after harvest. Proper postharvest management is essential to maintain the quality and freshness of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

6. Nursery Management

Nursery management involves the production and propagation of plants in nurseries. Nurseries play a vital role in supplying healthy and well-established plants for commercial use, landscaping, and reforestation.

7. Plant Breeding

Plant breeding is a crucial aspect of horticulture that focuses on developing new plant varieties with desirable traits, such as improved yield, disease resistance, and better flavor.

Horticulture plays a significant role in providing nutritious food, enhancing the environment, beautifying urban spaces, and supporting the economy through the production and trade of horticultural products. It requires a combination of scientific knowledge, practical skills, and creativity to succeed in producing and managing high-quality horticultural crops and landscapes. Horticulturists often work in collaboration with agricultural scientists, landscape designers, and environmental specialists to ensure sustainable and productive practices.

Horticulture in India

India has a rich tradition of horticulture, with diverse climatic zones and soil types that support the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The country is one of the largest producers of fruits and vegetables globally and has a significant share in the international floriculture market.

The major horticultural crops grown in India include mangoes, bananas, citrus fruits, grapes, apples, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and roses, among others. India's horticulture sector is an essential source of livelihood for millions of farmers and provides employment opportunities in various related industries, such as food processing and floriculture.

Indian horticulture faces challenges related to postharvest losses, inadequate infrastructure, and marketing inefficiencies. However, the government of India has been implementing various schemes and initiatives to promote horticulture, enhance productivity, and create a favorable environment for farmers and stakeholders.

National Horticulture Board (NHB) - India

National Horticultural Board https://www.nhb.gov.in/ was setup in 1984. The National Horticulture Board (NHB) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India. It was established in 1984 with the objective of promoting and developing horticulture in the country. The NHB plays a crucial role in the growth and modernization of the horticulture sector in India.

Objectives of National Horticulture Board:

The primary objectives of the National Horticulture Board are as follows:

1. Promotion of Horticulture: NHB aims to promote the growth, development, and expansion of horticulture crops such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, medicinal and aromatic plants, and plantation crops.

2. Research and Development: The board supports research and development activities in horticulture to introduce new technologies, improve productivity, and enhance the quality of horticultural produce.

3. Financial Assistance: NHB provides financial assistance to various stakeholders in the horticulture sector, including farmers, growers, processors, exporters, and cooperatives.

4. Infrastructure Development: The board supports the establishment of post-harvest infrastructure, cold storage facilities, and processing units to minimize postharvest losses and add value to horticultural products.

5. Marketing and Export Promotion: NHB focuses on improving market access for horticultural products and facilitating their export to international markets.

6. Training and Capacity Building: The board conducts training programs and workshops for farmers and stakeholders to impart knowledge about the latest horticultural practices and technologies. They havel also setup training centres at KVK, Baramati, Pune and Talegaon Dabhade in Pune.

Schemes and Initiatives:

NHB implements various schemes and initiatives to achieve its objectives and promote horticulture in India. Some of the prominent schemes include:

1. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): It is a centrally sponsored scheme that aims to promote holistic development in horticulture by providing financial assistance for various horticulture activities.

2. National Horticulture Mission (NHM): This scheme focuses on integrated development in horticulture through area-based and region-specific approaches.

3. Horticulture Cluster Development Program (HCDP): HCDP aims to develop horticulture clusters to enhance productivity and competitiveness in horticultural produce.

4. Technology Development and Transfer: NHB supports the development and dissemination of advanced technologies in horticulture to farmers and stakeholders.

Impact and Contribution:

The National Horticulture Board's efforts have significantly contributed to the growth of the horticulture sector in India. It has facilitated the adoption of modern practices, improved infrastructure, enhanced market access, and increased exports of horticultural produce.

The board's initiatives have benefited thousands of farmers and horticulturists across the country, leading to higher income generation, employment opportunities, and overall economic development.

NHB continues to play a pivotal role in transforming India's horticulture landscape and ensuring food security, nutritional value, and sustainable agricultural practices.