(a) whether the North-Eastern region including Assam has the potentiality to increase horticultural production in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to develop horticulture sector in the North-Eastern States
and the success achieved as a result thereof; and
(d) the funds allocated and released to various North-Eastern States during each of the last three years and
the current year for the purpose, State-wise?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 32 DUE FOR REPLY
ON 26TH FEBRUARY, 2013.
(a) to (d) There is enormous potential for development of horticulture in North Eastern region including Assam.The
diverse topography and climatic conditions of the region is suitable for production of a wide range of horticulture
crops. Total horticulture production in the region reached 10.13 million tonnes in 2011-12, of which vegetables
account for 48.0 per cent, fruits for 41.0%, spices for 6.4%, plantation crops for 3.6% and others for 1.0%.
Government launched Technology Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture in North Eastern States (TMNE) during 2001-02, which was subsequently extended to Himalayan States during 2003-04 and renamed as Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH). Horticulture development is also promoted under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) and National Vegetable Initiative for Urban Clusters.
These initiatives have resulted in significant growth in horticulture sector in the North East area under fruits and vegetables has increased from 0.67 million ha in 2001-02 to 0.92 million ha in 2011-12 with corresponding increase in production from 6.7 million tonnes to 9.0 million tonnes.
Details of funds allocated and released under HMNEH during each of the last three years and the current year is Annexed.