Revitalizing Vidarbha: Citrus Industry Gets A Boost

The Maharashtra government aims to enhance citrus farming in Vidarbha with strategic reforms, improving the quality and global competitiveness of fruit production. Reforms include updating nursery regulations and leveraging AI technology for development, aiming to transform Vidarbha into a high-quality fruit production center to boost livelihoods.

The Maharashtra government is set to implement strategic reforms aimed at boosting citrus farming in the Vidarbha region. State Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne highlighted the reforms during a high-level meeting chaired by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in Nagpur.

Policy changes include amendments to the Maharashtra Fruits Nurseries (Regulation) Act, 1969, intended to enhance the quality of planting material and position Vidarbha as a globally competitive citrus production area. Reforms will enforce mandatory nursery registration and accreditation, elevating fruit quality for international markets.

The meeting also outlined the development of 20 model nurseries, deployment of AI-based thinning systems, and advanced research initiatives, all aimed at revitalizing Vidarbha's citrus sector. These efforts are expected to bolster livelihoods and affirm the region's importance in India's fruit production landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)