Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the introduction of master’s degree and PhD programs in post-harvest management, plant pest control, and plant diseases. He inaugurated 14 Horticulture Science Centers at Maharana Pratap Horticulture University, emphasizing their role in providing advanced technologies and guidance to farmers. The announcement was made during a national conference in Karnal organized by the university and the Lieutenant Amit Memorial Foundation.
The conference, themed “Strategic Paradigm of Quality Seeds and Planting Material for Horticultural Crops in Amritkaal,” saw the Chief Minister honoring horticulture scientists and progressive farmers. Saini highlighted India’s position as the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally, emphasizing the need for improved quality, grading, disease-free planting material, and post-harvest management. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the main campus of Maharana Pratap Horticulture University in 2024.
Recognizing the importance of quality seeds and planting material in enhancing agricultural productivity, the Chief Minister stressed the significance of focusing on modern supply chains and scientific management. Haryana aims to double the horticulture sector and triple production by 2030 to boost farmers’ income. The state has already set up 13 centers of excellence for horticulture and implemented the Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana, fixing protected prices for various horticultural crops.
