3-January-2024-Editorial

HORTICULTURE BOOST: LITCHI CULTIVATION HAS EXPANDED TO 19 INDIAN STATES, ACCORDING TO OFFICIALS

The expansion of Litchi cultivation across 19 Indian states signals a remarkable boost in the horticulture sector. Spearheaded by the efforts of the National Research Centre on Litchi (NRCL) in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, this development is transforming the traditional landscape of litchi cultivation.

About Litchi:

• Botanical Classification: Litchi, belonging to the Sapindaceae family, is renowned for its delectable, juicy, translucent aril or edible flesh.
• Climatic Requirements: Thriving in sub-tropical climates, litchi prefers moist conditions and flourishes in areas with low elevation, up to approximately 800 meters.
• Soil Preference: Ideal soil for litchi cultivation is deep, well-drained loamy soil enriched with organic matter.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Litchi is sensitive to extreme temperatures, intolerant of temperatures exceeding 40.5 degrees Celsius in summer or freezing temperatures in winter.
• Rainfall Impact: Prolonged rain, particularly during flowering, can disrupt pollination and adversely affect the crop.
• Geographical Cultivation: Initially confined to the northern Himalayan foothills, plains of Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, commercial cultivation has expanded to states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh.
• Production Distribution: Bihar leads with nearly 40% of India’s litchi production, followed by West Bengal (12%) and Jharkhand (10%).
• Global Standing: India, ranking second globally in litchi production, follows China. Other significant producers include Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States.

What is Horticulture?

Horticulture encompasses the science, art, and practice of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, ornamental plants, and various crops for human use and enjoyment.

Initiatives for Horticulture:

Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):

• A Centrally Sponsored Scheme fostering holistic horticultural growth, MIDH covers fruits, vegetables, and related areas.
• Government of India contributes 60% of the total outlay for developmental programs, with state governments contributing 40% (90% in North Eastern and Himalayan states).

Horticulture Cluster Development Programme:

• A central sector initiative aiming to develop and grow identified horticulture clusters to enhance global competitiveness.
• A horticulture cluster refers to a regional/geographical concentration of targeted horticulture crops.

Conclusion:

The burgeoning litchi cultivation across diverse Indian states signifies a paradigm shift in the horticulture landscape. Spearheaded by the NRCL, this expansion not only addresses increasing demand but also showcases the adaptability of horticulture practices.

Moreover, the strategic initiatives like MIDH and the Horticulture Cluster Development Programme underscore the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and globally competitive horticulture sector.

This shift not only boosts agricultural productivity but also promises economic prosperity and sustainability in the agricultural domain.