India’s Clean Plant Mission

Need for Clean Planting Material

India’s Clean Plant Mission: Plant diseases caused by viruses, fungi, and bacteria are a major reason for reduced crop productivity. These pathogens spread silently and often show symptoms only after severe infection. Using disease-free planting material is the most reliable method to prevent losses. It improves yield, extends the shelf life of produce, and ensures better income for farmers.

Static GK fact: India ranks second globally in fruit and vegetable production, after China.

Launch of the Programme

The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) was launched in August 2024 to address these challenges. Its objective is to provide virus-free, high-quality planting material to farmers, ensuring resilient crops and sustainable production. The scheme directly addresses climate change impacts and rising plant health concerns.

Structure and Funding

The programme is implemented by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) with technical backing from ICAR. It has an outlay of ₹1,765.67 crore, which includes a $98 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Nine Clean Plant Centres will be set up across India. Maharashtra will host three centres dedicated to grapes, oranges, and pomegranates.

Static GK fact: The Asian Development Bank was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Manila, Philippines.

Implementation and Activities

A dedicated CPP website has been launched for farmer access and updates. Hazard Analysis is being carried out to identify crop viruses, while sample testing is ongoing in several states. The first Clean Plant Centre is currently in the design phase. Experts from ADB and NHB have visited Maharashtra and Jammu & Kashmir nurseries for guidance. Bioinformatics-based laboratories are under development to detect new viruses.

Process of Producing Clean Plants

The production cycle begins with pathogen testing. If plant material tests negative, it is propagated into disease-free mother plants. If positive, techniques like tissue culture and heat therapy are applied to eliminate infections. Certified clean plants are then supplied to nurseries for large-scale distribution to farmers.

Benefits of the Programme

Farmers gain disease-free, high-yield seedlings, while nurseries receive infrastructure and certification support. Consumers benefit from better quality, nutritious fruits. Export potential increases as global buyers prefer virus-free produce. The programme ensures affordability, regional crop adaptation, and special inclusion of women farmers in training and implementation.

Static GK Tip: India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, bananas, and papayas.

Alignment with National Missions

The CPP is linked with Mission LiFE, promoting sustainable practices. It also complements the National One Health Mission, which integrates environmental, human, and animal health to manage disease risks. Additionally, it supports the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), strengthening India’s horticulture sector.

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India’s Clean Plant Mission: