Question : PRODUCTION OF GRAPES



(a) whether production of grapes have declined during the last few years and the output is also likely to be declined;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken to increase the production of grapes in the country?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a)&(b): No, Sir. The production of grapes in the country has increased from 10.56 lakh Metric Tonnes (MT) in the year 2000-01 to 16.15 lakh MT during the year 2005-06.

(c): the Government is implementing various schemes for the development of horticultural crops including grapes. Under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of
(i) Technology Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture in North Eastern States (TMNE) including Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand, being implemented since 2001-02 and National Horticulture Mission being implemented from 2005-06, assistance is being provided to the farmers for area expansion, rejuvenation of senile orchards, Integrated Nutrient Management/ Integrated Pest Management and adoption of Organic farming. Besides, the National Horticulture Board is also providing assistance under the Scheme of `Development of Commercial Horticulture through Production and Post Harvest Management`, in which grape is also covered.