Major push for horticulture development, the Centre has approved a long-pending ₹200 crore banana cluster project, bringing fresh opportunities for banana growers. The initiative is expected to strengthen modern farming practices, post-harvest infrastructure, and export capabilities, ultimately helping farmers secure better prices and access global markets.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that the banana cluster project in Jalgaon will be developed with an investment of ₹200 crore. The project will promote Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), mechanisation, bio-control methods, fruit covering, and pre-cooling facilities to improve both productivity and quality.
Addition, key infrastructure such as cold storage units, ripening chambers, refrigerated transport, processing units, and export-linked facilities will be developed. Farmers will receive financial support for these facilities under schemes like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF).
Highlighting the gap between farm-gate and retail prices, the minister expressed concern that farmers often sell produce like tomatoes at very low prices, while consumers pay significantly higher rates in urban markets. He said both the Centre and states are working together to build an efficient system that ensures farmers receive fair value for their produce.
The minister noted that including perishable crops like bananas under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system is challenging due to limited storage life. As a solution, the government is exploring an alternative model where farmers would be compensated for the difference between market prices and a benchmark or cost price when prices fall.
He added that similar models have already been tested for crops like chilli and mango under schemes such as PM-AASHA.
Call for Natural Farming Practices:
Shivraj Singh Chouhan also raised concerns over the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, which are reducing soil fertility and harming beneficial organisms. He urged farmers to gradually adopt natural farming practices, stating that when implemented correctly, they can enhance soil health and sustain productivity without reducing yields.
Roadmap Based on Farmers’ Feedback:
The minister assured that a comprehensive roadmap will be prepared based on farmers’ feedback and concerns. He also emphasized efforts to give Jalgaon’s banana produce a stronger global identity, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving farmers’ income and building a more self-reliant agricultural sector.
FAQs:
1. What is the investment for the Jalgaon banana cluster project?
The project has been approved with an investment of ₹200 crore.
2. Which facilities will the banana cluster include?
It includes cold storage, ripening chambers, processing units, and refrigerated transport.
3. Can farmers get financial support for this project?
Yes, through MIDH and the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF).
4. Will bananas be included under MSP?
Due to their perishable nature, bananas are not under MSP. Alternative price support models are being considered.
5. How does natural farming benefit banana cultivation?
It improves soil fertility, reduces chemical use, and sustains long-term productivity.
