India, Sept. 21 -- The Government of India issued the following news release:
Introduction
There are growing challenges posed by climate change, as well as biotic and abiotic threats to plant health. These challenges directly translate into agricultural losses, reducing farmers' income and overall productivity. India has invested significantly in boosting farm productivity, yet systemic pathogens (primarily viruses) continue to pose a major threat, causing significant yield losses. These pathogens reduce crop quantity, quality and longevity. By the time symptoms appear, it is often impossible for farmers to manage diseases in the field. Starting with disease-free planting materials has therefore been recognized as the most effective strategy to combat these challenges.
To address this, the importance of preventive measures such as ensuring high standards in seed quality and implementing clean plant programmes- have been widely recognised. Such measures not only safeguard plant health but also come with the added advantage of being free from adverse side effects. Accordingly, on 9th August 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Overview: The Imperative for Clean Planting Material
The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) was launched as a major initiative to provide farmers with access to high-quality, virus-free planting material. The National Horticulture Board (NHB) serves as an implementing and executing agency in association with Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), which oversees technical progress and facilitates capacity building. The initiative involves a significant investment of rs 1,765.67 crore, which also includes an Asian Development Bank approved loan of $98 million in December 2023.
The rest of the document can be viewed at https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2169147
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
