The main objective of this scheme is

• To popularize new technologies/tools/techniques for commercialization/adoption
• To introduce new concepts on improved farming systems
• To upgrade technical skills
• To identify and popularize indigenous crops and flora of horticultural importance
• To provide exposure towards new scientific concepts,
• Research and development in traditional status of farming and post harvest management.

Pilot projects on new technologies should be commercially sustainable and preferably below Rs. 10 lakhs. The projects should have the following features:

• Act as a development prototype for adoption on a commercial scale,
• Serve as a demonstration and training on new technology/tool/equipments and implementation of technology/concept.

Post harvest management, primary processing, biotechnology and introduction of new tool/equipment/machinery is to be considered on merit. R & D projects on specific problems would also be considered on merit basis. Under this scheme, a grant up to 100% of the project cost would be provided. The grant for pilot project is Rs. 10 lakh and for Post Harvest Management and Research and Development, it is Rs. 25 lakh.

Farmer groups for national and domestic visits are selected by the state government. These groups will help in horticultural promotion. Financial assistance is provided in the form of grant-in-aid for organizing such training /visit up to a period of 10 days (excluding journey period). International visits for a minimum of 10 farmers is possible.

Promotional and extension activities, organizing export services from India/abroad and technology awareness are also provided under this scheme. For organizing programmes on technology awareness, a maximum of Rs. 50,000/- per event/organization is considered by the committee of NHB.

For the organization of seminars, workshops, etc for the promotion of horticulture, a financial assistance up to Rs. 3 lakh for state level participation, up to Rs. 5 lakh for national level participation and up to Rs. 10 lakh per event for international participation (3-5 days) is given. In case of short duration seminars (1-2 days) financial assistance is limited to Rs. 1 lakh for state level events, Rs. 2 lakh for national level events and Rs. 3 lakh for international events.

Farmers, Scientists and experts, horticulture institutes or departments or any other concerned person.

Contact

National Horticulture Board,
Ministry of Agriculture
Plot No. 85, Sector 18, Institutional Area,
Guragon - 122015
Haryana
Ph: 0124-2347441
Fax: 2342991, 2341225

Himachal Pradesh
National Horticulture Board
HPMC, Nigam Vihar

Jammu & Kashmir
National Horticulture Board
Hall No. 307, A-2, 3rd Floor
South Block, Bahu Plaza
Rail Head Complex
JAMMU - 180004
Tel/Fax : 0191-2474349

Email: nhbjammu@rediffmail.com