After a three-year delay, the Cluster Development Programme (CDP), designed to bolster mango cultivation in the former Mahabubnagar region, is set to commence this monsoon. The initiative, spearheaded by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in collaboration with the Telangana State Horticulture Development Corporation (TSHDCL) as the designated Cluster Development Agency, aims to enhance the mango sector through comprehensive support in pre and post-production, including post-harvest management, value addition, and improvements in logistics, marketing, and branding strategies.
With the objective of revitalizing the mango industry, the NHB and TSHDCL have called for proposals to implement various components and establish necessary infrastructure within the Mahabubnagar district under the CDP. This program is among 12 pilot projects nationwide focused on mango cultivation. Initially scheduled for the 2020-21 period, the project faced setbacks due to limited engagement from potential implementing agencies.
Nevertheless, Prasad Seeds Private Limited has recently agreed to lead the mango CDP in Telangana, according to a horticulture department official. The program's comprehensive approach will involve all key stakeholders across the value chain, aiming to support mango farmers not only in Mahabubnagar but also in the adjacent districts of Wanaparthy, Narayanpet, Nagarkurnool, and Jogulamba Gadwal.
Source: telanganatoday.com