National Horticulture Mission a boon for capsicum farmers

Krishnagiri (Tamil Nadu), Mar 6 (ANI): Capsicum farmers in Krishnagiri district are earning huge profits due to the good harvest on account of the benefits obtained from the Central Government's National Horticulture Mission.

The production cost is low and capsicum grown in the area is in huge demand both in the international as well as domestic market.

Krishna, a farmer said, "We have set up green house in 1000 square feet for growing capsicum. This is one-year crop. We have to plant it 75 days in advance. From 75 days to till one year we are getting yield."

"We are doing harvest once in a week. We received 50 grade, each grade contains 12 tonnes capsicum, so 50 kilogram contains 600 tonnes capsicum," he added.

The green house production has also resulted in improving yield of the capsicum; hence the exports of the crop have increased significantly.

Horticulture Mission Assistant Director Ramesh Vainakun said, "At present, this capsicum has less pungency and little bit sweetness also. With this sweetness, the foreigners especially in countries like Malaysia and Singapore will like this."

"These people will use our capsicum for benefits of them, for pizzas and other things," added Vainakun.

The farmers of the region have received loans and are enjoying subsidy of Rs 32,500 from the Central Government.

The National Horticulture Mission was launched as a Central Government scheme in the year 2005 -2006 to promote holistic growth of the horticulture sector. (ANI)