India, ADB Sign $98M Loan for Plant Health

On 29th November, 2024, India and ADB inked a $98 million loan agreement to enhance plant health management in horticulture, promoting sustainable farming and climate resilience.

The $98 million loan agreement aims to improve farmers’ access to certified, disease-free planting materials, boosting crop yield, quality, and climate resilience.
The project aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP), enhancing regulatory frameworks and institutional systems for horticulture.
Clean plant centres equipped with advanced diagnostic facilities and expert staff will be established to maintain disease-free foundation materials.
A clean plant certification scheme will accredit private nurseries and ensure the testing and certification of planting materials.
The initiative involves close collaboration with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for sustainable implementation.