Karnataka to launch various horticulture development initiatives

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has decided to launch the Rs 95 crore Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme – 2.0. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced this while presenting the budget for 2025-26 in the state assembly. This initiative will help bring advanced technology to farmers. During his budget speech, the CM stressed the importance of horticulture in increasing farmers’ income and boosting the state’s economy. He stated that the new scheme would help farmers adopt modern farming methods, such as crop planning, drip irrigation, and setting up polyhouses.

The state government is also planning to establish a Knowledge Cell in association with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology and private players. This cell will use satellite technology to provide real-time data to farmers on crop health, production, and market trends. Additionally, a seed bank will be set up to preserve 20 GI-tagged and other indigenous crops that are at risk of extinction.

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The government has also decided to promote research and conservation to protect Byadagi chilli from leaf-curl disease, thrips, and other threats. An allocation of Rs 62 crore has been made to support over 2 lakh areca nut farmers in Malenadu, who are struggling with leaf spot disease.

To combat the black-headed caterpillar, which poses a threat to coconut crops, the government will take necessary measures based on scientific surveys. Besides this, Rs 426 crore has been allocated under the micro irrigation scheme, benefiting 52,000 farmers.

An Organic and Millet Hub will also be established at a cost of Rs 20 crore to promote organic and millet farming.

With these schemes, the Karnataka government aims to strengthen the state’s horticulture sector, protect farmers’ interests, prevent crop diseases, and promote sustainable farming practices.