NewzVille Desk
We Lead in Spice Crop Production; Let Us Expand the Area Under Horticultural Crops: Chief Minister Dr. Yadav
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that horticultural crops serve as an effective means for generating substantial income from a relatively small land area. He emphasized that the maximum number of farmers in the state should be encouraged to engage in this sector. Farmers should be motivated to adopt organic farming practices—specifically utilizing natural fertilizers—for the cultivation of both seasonal and horticultural crops.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav affirmed that the state government is continuously striving to enhance farmers’ incomes and foster innovation within the agricultural sector. The objective is to boost farmers’ real income through the cultivation of horticultural crops. To ensure income growth for farmers and bring prosperity to their lives, a systematic approach should be adopted to expand both the variety of horticultural crops and the total land area under their cultivation on a year-on-year basis. He noted that international demand for our horticultural and spice crops is on the rise. To meet this demand, efforts must be made to identify new markets and undertake extensive branding of horticultural products.
The Chief Minister further highlighted that crops rich in medicinal properties are also cultivated in abundance within the state. These crops hold immense potential. A comprehensive supply chain should be established to ensure that these crops—which are essential for pharmaceutical manufacturing—are supplied to the international market in accordance with demand.
Dr. Yadav mentioned that new Ayurvedic colleges and hospitals are being established across the state every year. He directed that the state’s own medicinal crops and their by-products be utilized extensively to meet the supply requirements for indigenous and Ayurvedic medicines in these institutions.
He proudly stated that the state currently holds the first position nationwide in the production of spice crops; an achievement that serves as an inspiration for us to strive for even greater excellence in this sector.
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav conducted a detailed review of the schemes and activities of the Department of Horticulture and Food Processing at theSecretariat. The meeting featured an in-depth discussion regarding the progress of various departmental schemes and the delivery of benefits to beneficiaries.
During the meeting, it was reported that, in view of the upcoming Simhastha-2028 mega-event, efforts are underway to promote and expand floriculture in Ujjain.
To facilitate this initiative, a ‘Centre for Excellence in Floriculture’ is currently being established in Ujjain. Nineteen acres of land have been identified in a village near the city of Ujjain for the establishment of a center. Appropriate coordination is also being undertaken by submitting a proposal to the Central Government.
During the meeting, it was stated that the area under horticulture cultivation is projected to reach 3 million hectares by the year 2030. Steps are currently underway to establish a Horticulture Promotion Agency within the state to boost the production and export of horticultural crops.
Madhya Pradesh’s horticultural produce will gain global recognition. To this end, the process of securing GI (Geographical Indication) tags is currently in progress.
Specifically, horticultural products such as Jabalpuri peas, Guna’s Kumbhraj coriander, Burhanpur bananas, Ratlam’s Riyawan garlic, Khargone chilies, Indore’s Malvi potatoes, Barman Brinjal, and Chhatarpur paan (betel leaf) are set to receive a distinct geographical identity very soon.
