Ministry of Food Processing Initiates Expansion of “Operation Greens” Scheme to 22 Perishable Crops

New Delhi:  The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has been actively implementing the Central Sector Scheme, “Operation Greens” (OG), under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana since 2018-19. The primary objective of this scheme is to augment the value realization for farmers while minimizing post-harvest losses. As part of the Long Term Interventions component, 53 projects have been approved across the country for eligible crops in identified production clusters. The approved projects have received grants in aid amounting to ₹634.59 crores, with a total project cost of ₹2457.49 crores. The detailed list of projects approved under the OG Scheme is provided in the annexure.

In a significant move to further support farmers and enhance the scope of the OG Scheme, the Ministry has expanded its coverage from the initial three crops—Tomato, Onion, and Potato (TOP)—to include 22 perishable crops. The newly added crops are Mango, Banana, Apple, Pineapple, Orange, Grapes, Aonla/Amla, Pomegranate, Guava, Litchi, Green Peas, Carrot, Cauliflower, Beans, Gourd Family (Bottle Gourd, Bitter Gourd, Ridge/Sponge Gourd, Pointed Gourd, and Ash Gourd), Okra, Garlic, Ginger, and Shrimp.

The expansion of the OG Scheme to encompass a broader range of perishable crops aligns with the government’s commitment to supporting farmers across various sectors and reducing post-harvest losses. This strategic move is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing the overall value realization for farmers and creating a more resilient agricultural ecosystem.

This initiative comes under the 15th Financial Commission Cycle (2021-26), reflecting the government’s continuous efforts to fortify the agriculture sector and provide comprehensive support to farmers in diversifying their crops and markets.