Karnataka to Roll Out Horticulture Development Scheme.

Karnataka will implement the Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme – 2.0 with an outlay of ₹95 crore in the financial year 2025-26 to bring technological advancements in horticulture to farmers, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced while presenting the state budget.

“The contribution of horticulture crops is significant in augmenting farmers’ income. To ensure technological advancements in value addition, processing, and cropping patterns reach farmers, we are implementing this scheme,” he said.

As part of the initiative, a Knowledge Cell will be set up in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology and private players to provide farmers with real-time data on crop production, health, and market trends using satellite and modern technologies.

The government will also establish a seed bank to conserve 20 GI-tagged and other indigenous crops that are on the verge of extinction.

Research & Financial Support for Farmers

• Byadagi Chilli Protection: Research and conservation efforts will be undertaken to protect Byadagi chilli from leaf-curl disease, thrips, and other threats.


• Micro Irrigation Support: ₹426 crore has been allocated under the micro-irrigation scheme to benefit 52,000 farmers.


• Areca Nut Disease Control: ₹62 crore has been set aside to support 2 lakh areca nut growers in the Malenadu region affected by leaf spot disease.


• Coconut Pest Control: The state government will conduct a scientific survey on the black-headed caterpillar infestation in coconut-growing areas and implement plant protection measures accordingly.

Focus on Organic & Millet Farming

To encourage organic and millet cultivation, Karnataka will establish an Organic and Millet Hub at a cost of ₹20 crore. The hub will help bridge the supply-demand gap and improve market access for farmers.

HBL