Lucknow: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that Uttar Pradesh is set to emerge as a major hub for premium fruit production and exports, as India shifts its agricultural focus from production volume to quality and global competitiveness.
He made the remarks while addressing the “Fruit Horizon 2026” conference held at ICAR–Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), Lucknow.
Shift from Production to Quality and Global Standards
Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that increasing production alone is not enough anymore. India must now focus on:
- Fruit quality improvement
- Shelf life enhancement
- Post-harvest processing
- Logistics and supply chain strength
- Global export standards
He said agriculture must evolve into a complete value chain from farm to international markets.
Task Force to Boost Farmers’ Income
A major decision at the event was the formation of a multi-agency task force involving:
- ICAR scientific institutions
- Exporters
- Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
- Other stakeholders
The task force will prepare a time-bound action plan to resolve issues in production and exports and increase farmers’ income.
Clean Plant Mission to Strengthen Uttar Pradesh Horticulture
The Union Minister announced that Uttar Pradesh will be significantly strengthened under the Clean Planting Material Programme.
A modern Clean Plant Centre is being developed at ICAR–Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture to produce disease-free and high-quality planting material for fruits like:
- Mango
- Guava
- Litchi
- Avocado
Focus on “Zero Rejection” and Premium Fruit Export
Chouhan stressed the need for “zero rejection” quality standards to make Indian fruits globally competitive.
He highlighted the importance of:
- Advanced farming technologies
- Better post-harvest management
- Pack houses and processing units
- Standard operating procedures for exports
FPOs and Export Clusters to Transform Sector
The government is promoting Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), FPCs, and Self-Help Groups to connect small farmers with global markets.
Key initiatives include:
- Export-oriented horticulture clusters
- Modern irradiation facilities
- Integrated post-harvest infrastructure
- Linkages with upcoming Noida International Airport (Jewar Airport)
These steps are expected to boost exports and reduce wastage.
Strong Push for Global Fruit Market Leadership
The government aims to position India as a global leader in fruit exports by strengthening infrastructure, quality control, and market access.
Officials said the combined efforts of the Centre and states will significantly increase farmers’ income and open new international opportunities.
With a strong focus on quality improvement, export readiness, and infrastructure development, Uttar Pradesh is being positioned as a future powerhouse in India’s fruit production and global export ecosystem under the vision presented at Fruit Horizon 2026.
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