Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that both farmers and industrialists would benefit from horticulture and food processing activities. These activities can foster entrepreneurship and industrial growth in all districts of the state.
He emphasized that coordination between the Department of Horticulture and Food Processing and the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises sector will enhance employment opportunities and economic activities. Significant progress has been made in this area.
He suggested forming self-help groups to engage farmers and their families, along with establishing hi-tech nurseries at the divisional level to provide necessary training. Dr. Yadav recommended increasing the budget for the Horticulture and Food Processing Department and aligning activities with market demand.
He also proposed the creation of a horticulture promotion agency with a clear time frame and roadmap to guide these efforts.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was reviewing the Horticulture and Food Processing Department. Minister Shri Narayan Singh Kushwaha, Chief Secretary Smt. Veera Rana, Additional Chief Secretary Shri Rajesh Rajoura, Principal Secretary Finance Shri Manish Singh, Principal Secretary Shri Sukhveer Singh, and other officers were present in the meeting.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that Madhya Pradesh is one of the leading states in India for spice production. He emphasized the need to develop a separate market for spices within the state and to expand spice cultivation to other districts.
With large-scale production of fruits, vegetables, and spices, special efforts should be made to establish the distinct identity of Madhya Pradesh's oranges, bananas, betel, garlic, and more at both national and international levels. Additionally, Dr. Yadav instructed that the ongoing tree plantation campaign in the state should include the encouragement of planting fruit trees.