Kohima, January 19 (MExN): The state level stakeholder’s consultation meet for modification of MIDH (Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture) guidelines was held in the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Horticulture, Kohima on January 18.
The meeting was held to discuss on policies related to the existing MIDH guidelines and further requirements for holistic development of the horticulture sector, to suggest views and comments to the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India for modifications in the MIDH Guidelines.
The event which was attended by officers of the Horticulture Department, representatives from ICAR, SASRD, CIH, SBI Lead Bank, NSAMB, FPOs, progressive farmers and entrepreneurs from the districts, was chaired by Pawan Kumar, Director of Horticulture. The chair presented the welcome address and appraised the house that the meet was called at the behest of the Ministry so that the stakeholders can be given the opportunity to present their views and suggestions to modify the MIDH guidelines at the State Level. The outcome of which will be presented in the Zonal Level Stakeholders Consultation Meet to be held on February 1 which will ultimately culminate at the National Level Meet.
Alan Gomei, IAS & Secretary (Horticulture) in his address highlighted the fact that this was the first time that the States have been consulted in any National policy decision as till the 12th Five Year Plan, States were not taken into confidence during the framing of various Scheme guidelines due to which it became difficult to implement the Schemes especially in the North East Region, due to the geographical and social differences. He urged the Stakeholders especially the farmers, entrepreneurs, Researchers, Bankers and field officers to take full advantage of the privilege and come out with useful suggestions based on their field experiences so as to make the implementation of the Scheme successful.
Thereafter, the stakeholders had a brainstorming discussion during the technical session where all the different aspects and issues in the MIDH guidelines were analysed and the different stakeholders came out with various views and suggestions for modification in the MIDH guidelines with the consensus of the members present which will be compiled and presented at the Zonal Level Stakeholders Meet to be held in February.
The meet ended with a vote of thanks from Arun Mech, Joint Director of Horticulture.
