The Benefits of the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission (MIDH) Scheme

The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at increasing farmers' income and improving their quality of life through the development of the horticulture sector. This initiative is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare. Let's explore the various objectives and impacts of MIDH in detail.

Inception of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):

Launched in 2014, the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) aims to promote the holistic development of horticulture in the country. This mission was initiated during the 12th Five-Year Plan. Under MIDH, six existing schemes of the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation have been integrated and unified to facilitate comprehensive development in the horticulture sector.

Integration of Major Schemes:

Under MIDH, the following major schemes have been included:

1. National Horticulture Mission (NHM)
2. Horticulture Mission for the North East and Himalayan States 
3. National Bamboo Mission (NBM)

Additionally, three central sector schemes are also part of this mission:

1. National Horticulture Board (NHB)
2. Coconut Development Board (CDB)
3. Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), Nagaland

Sustainable Measures for Horticulture Development: MIDH adopts sustainable and holistic measures for horticulture development. These measures emphasize the conservation of water resources, the improvement of soil fertility, and the maintenance of environmental balance. Moreover, crop diversification and the use of advanced agricultural techniques are also encouraged.

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The objectives of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture are as follows: The primary objective of MIDH is to increase the production and quality of horticultural crops. Farmers are provided with knowledge of modern agricultural techniques, the development of marketing facilities, and measures for plant protection.

Financial Assistance and Contributions: The Government of India contributes 60% of the total expenditure for development programs under this scheme, while the remaining 40% is borne by the state governments. In the case of North Eastern and Himalayan states, the central government provides a 90% contribution to ensure maximum development of horticulture in these regions.
 
Diversity of Horticultural Crops:

This scheme includes a wide variety of horticultural crops, such as:

1. Fruits and vegetables: mango, banana, apple, orange, tomato, potato, etc.
2. Root and Tuber Crops: Ginger, Turmeric, Sweet Potato, etc.
3. Mushrooms and Spices: Mushroom cultivation, black pepper, cardamom, etc.
4. Flowers and Aromatic Plants: Rose, Jasmine, Lavender, etc.
5. Coconut, Cashew, and Cocoa: Coconut products, Cashew cultivation, and Cocoa production techniques.
6. Bamboo: Various types of bamboo and their uses.

Role of MIDH in Promoting Horticulture: MIDH plays a crucial role in providing the necessary impetus for the horticulture sector. During the 12th Five-Year Plan, a healthy growth rate of 7.2% in the horticulture sector is expected due to the implementation of MIDH initiatives. Farmers receive assistance with advanced technologies, high-quality seeds, and modern agricultural equipment, improving their production capacity.

Horticulture Development Program: This program includes various schemes for the production and marketing of horticultural crops. It involves the use of new technologies, the distribution of quality seeds, and training to promote production.

Protected Cultivation: High-quality crops can be obtained through protected cultivation. Structures such as polyhouses, greenhouses, and shade net houses are used to protect crops from adverse weather conditions and increase production.

Benefits of the Scheme:

1. Increase in Crop Productivity: From traditional crops to diversified productivity, including orchards, vineyards, flower gardens, vegetable gardens, and bamboo groves.
2. Cold Chain Infrastructure: Special emphasis on cold chain infrastructure to extend the shelf life of perishable produce. Promotion of research and development technologies for farming, production, post-harvest management, and processing.
3. Post-Harvest Management: Improvement in post-harvest management, value addition through processing, and marketing infrastructure.

Eligibility for the Scheme: All farmers, registered committees, and state governments are eligible for this scheme.

Required Documents:

1. Aadhaar Number
2. Land Documents
3. Caste Certificate
4. Bank Details
5. Passport-Size Photo

Important information about MIDH:

1. Scheme Name: Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
2. Launched: April 2014  
3. Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India
4. Beneficiaries: All States and Union Territories
5. Objective: Promote the Horticulture Sector
6. Application Process: Online and Offline
7. Official Website: (http://midh.gov.in/)

Offline application process:

1. Interested applicants can contact their district horticulture officer or block horticulture officer.
2. The District Horticulture Officer or Block Horticulture Officer will submit your application details and plan to the State Horticulture Mission.
3. The State Horticulture Mission will evaluate the proposals received.
4. If your proposal is approved, you will receive financial assistance.