The “Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) Sub Scheme: Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan Region (HMNEH)” in Meghalaya is implemented by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya. This sub-scheme falls under the centrally sponsored MIDH programme, which aims to promote the holistic growth of the horticulture sector—including fruits, vegetables, root & tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew, cocoa, and bamboo. In Meghalaya, the HMNEH focuses on promoting horticulture through improved production, extension services, post-harvest management, processing, and marketing. The scheme also emphasizes the aggregation of farmers into groups (such as FIGs, FPOs, and FPCs) to leverage economies of scale, enhance production, increase farmers’ incomes, and strengthen nutritional security.
Benefits:
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Comprehensive Assistance:
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Financial assistance (Grant-in-Aid, Subsidy Sales) for:
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Production of quality planting materials
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Area expansion
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Rejuvenation of senile orchards
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Creation of water sources
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Protected horticulture
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Beekeeping
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Mechanization
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Post-harvest management
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Establishment of market infrastructures
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Additional Support:
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Training and technical advice
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Administrative support through state horticulture missions
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Encouragement for farmers’ aggregation into groups for enhanced productivity and income
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Eligibility:
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Must be a permanent resident of Meghalaya.
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The applicant should be a bona fide farmer engaged in agriculture.
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The applicant must own or lease at least 0.2 hectares of land.
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Participation is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Application Process (Offline):
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Step 01:
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Write an application on plain paper as a bona fide farmer.
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Step 02:
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Attach self-attested copies of all mandatory documents.
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Step 03:
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Submit the filled and signed application along with the documents to the nearest office of the Horticulture Development Officer of a CD Block or Horticulture Circle.
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Mode of Selection:
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Beneficiaries are selected on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Whom to Contact:
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Managing Director, Meghalaya Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium (MgSFAC)
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District Horticulture Officer
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Horticulture Development Officer
Documents Required:
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Passport-size photograph
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Identity Proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Voter ID)
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Bank passbook or account details
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Proof of ownership or lease of land
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Any other documents as specified by the scheme guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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What is the “Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)” Scheme?
MIDH is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at the holistic development of the horticulture sector, covering various crops and providing financial and technical support for production, post-harvest, processing, and marketing. -
How is the funding for MIDH allocated between the Government of India and the State Governments?
For most states, GOI contributes 60% and the state contributes 40%. However, for North Eastern and Himalayan states, GOI contributes 90%. -
What is the pattern of assistance under the HMNEH sub-scheme?
Assistance is provided in the form of Grant-in-Aid, Subsidy Sales of inputs, training, and demonstration. It supports various activities like production of planting materials, area expansion, orchard rejuvenation, water source creation, mechanization, and post-harvest management. -
Who can apply for the scheme?
Permanent residents of Meghalaya who are bona fide farmers and own or lease at least 0.2 hectares of land are eligible. -
How does one apply for the scheme?
Applicants must write an application on plain paper, attach the required documents, and submit it to the nearest office of the Horticulture Development Officer of a CD Block or Horticulture Circle. -
What is the beneficiaries’ selection procedure?
Selection is on a first-come, first-serve basis. -
Whom should applicants contact for more details?
Applicants can contact the Managing Director of MgSFAC, the District Horticulture Officer, or the Horticulture Development Officer.