Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 10 November 2025
In a bid to promote sustainable agriculture and enhance self-reliance among farmers, the Agriculture Department has launched the distribution of quality saplings of fruits and spices across the Agriculture Zones.
In Diglipur, the distribution of planting materials began on November 6 and is ongoing to ensure maximum farmers have access to saplings suited to the region’s agro-climatic conditions. Similar efforts are being carried out in all zones to provide high-quality planting material. Farmers are also being educated on scientific cultivation practices for fruits and spices by extension functionaries, while Panchayat members have been informed to facilitate local participation.
Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) – Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), financial assistance is being extended to beneficiaries for area expansion of fruits and spices. Assistance under the National Horticulture Mission includes:
- Perennial Fruits (Mango, Sapota, Guava, Citrus, Pomegranate etc.) – 50% of the cost up to Rs 62,500/ha in two installments (60:40).
- Non-Perennial Fruits (Banana & Pineapple suckers) – 50% of the cost up to Rs 55,000/ha; Tissue Culture Banana & Pineapple – up to Rs 87,500/ha in two installments.
- Perennial Spices (Black Pepper, Clove, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Bay Leaf) – 50% of the cost up to Rs 50,000/ha.
- Rhizomatous Spices (Ginger & Turmeric) – 50% of the cost up to Rs 50,000/ha, both in two installments (60:40).
The program is aimed at empowering farming communities to cultivate their own produce, reduce dependency on imports, and encourage biodiversity in the Islands’ agricultural landscape.
