Clean Plant Programme (CPP)
Why it matters?
India has invested significantly in boosting farm productivity, yet systemic pathogens (primarily viruses) continue to pose a major threat, causing significant yield losses.
Starting with disease-free planting materials has therefore been recognized as the most effective strategy to combat these challenges.
To address this, the importance of preventive measures such as ensuring high standards in seed quality and implementing clean plant programmes- have been widely recognised.
What should you know?
The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) is an initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to provide farmers with access to high-quality, virus-free planting material for key fruit crops.
The National Horticulture Board (NHB) is the implementing agency, with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) overseeing technical progress.
Investment Support by Asian Development Bank
The programme involves setting up 9 Clean Plant Centres, developing modern nurseries, and establishing a national-level laboratory in Pune.
Significance:
For Farmers: Access to virus-free, high-quality planting material, for boosting crop yields and enhancing farmer income opportunities.
Nurseries: Provides streamlined certification processes and offers infrastructure support, enabling nurseries to effectively propagate clean planting material and promote growth and sustainability.
For Consumers: Delivers superior produce free from viruses, improving the taste, appearance, and nutritional value of fruits available to consumers.
For Exports: Strengthens India’s position as a leading global exporter by focusing on higher-quality, disease-free fruits.
Equity and Inclusivity:
Ensures affordable access to clean plant material for all farmers
actively engages women farmers in planning and implementation by providing resources, training, and decision-making opportunities; and
develops region-specific clean plant varieties and technologies to address India’s diverse agro-climatic conditions.
Alignment with Other Initiatives:
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment):
CPP promotes sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices
This aligns with the goals of Mission LiFE.
National One Health Mission:
It aligns with the mission's multidisciplinary approach that unites human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):
It complements the MIDH for the holistic growth of the horticulture sector.