The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan agreement to enhance farmers’ access to certified, disease-free planting materials, thereby boosting crop yield, quality, and climate resilience in the horticulture sector.
The agreement was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge of ADB’s India Resident Mission.
Mukherjee highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, ‘ADB’s funding will significantly contribute to plant health, which is crucial for enhancing farmers’ productivity.’
The loan supports the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP), which focuses on plant health management through regulatory and institutional frameworks. ‘This project will closely engage private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations to ensure successful implementation and sustainability,’ said Mr. Yeo.
The programme aims to establish clean plant centres equipped with advanced diagnostic labs and expert staff to maintain disease-free planting materials. Additionally, a clean plant certification scheme will be introduced, accrediting private nurseries to ensure the supply of certified planting materials.
Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare through the National Horticulture Board and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the project will help farmers mitigate climate risks by addressing the impacts of rising temperatures on pest and disease behavior.
