National Horticulture Board (NHB)
Why in news?
The 33rd meeting of the National Horticulture Board (NHB) occurred on December 4, 2025, at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, chaired by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who reviewed key schemes like commercial horticulture, cold-chain projects, Cluster Development Programme (CDP), and Clean Plant Programme.
About
The National Horticulture Board (NHB) is an autonomous organization under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, established on April 30, 1984, and headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana.
Key Objectives
- NHB aims to develop hi-tech commercial horticulture clusters, modern post-harvest infrastructure like cold chains, and quality planting material through nurseries and accreditation.
- It promotes technologies such as Bharat GAP certification, farm mechanization, and market development for fresh produce while supporting R&D for storage protocols and long-distance transport.
Major Schemes
- Cluster Development Programme (CDP): Supports high-value multi-commodity and peri-urban vegetable clusters via Expressions of Interest (EOI) and project appraisals.
- Clean Plant Program (CPP), National Nursery Portal, and Bharat GAP Certification: Focus on disease-free plants, nursery accreditation, and quality standards.
- Integrated Cold Chain Platform (ICAP): Facilitates cold storage availability and infrastructure.
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