CDP-SURAKSHA

• The CDP-SURAKSHA functions as a digital hub designed to streamline agricultural assistance. SURAKSHA, which stands for “System for Unified Resource Allocation, Knowledge, and Secure Horticulture Assistance,” serves as its backbone. This platform facilitates the prompt distribution of subsidies directly into farmers' bank accounts through the utilization of e-RUPI vouchers provided by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• Key components of the CDP-SURAKSHA include database synchronization with PM-KISAN, cloud-based server infrastructure from NIC, validation through UIDAI, integration with eRUPI, access to local government directory (LGD), content management capabilities, geotagging, and geo-fencing functionalities
• The platform provides access to farmers, vendors, implementing agencies (IA), cluster development agencies (CDAs), and officials of the National Horticulture Board (NHB).
• Farmers can log in using their mobile numbers and place orders for planting materials such as seeds, seedlings, and plants according to their needs.
• Once the farmer submits the request, the system prompts them to contribute their portion of the planting material's cost. The government subsidy amount is automatically displayed on the screen.
• Once the farmer makes their contribution, an e-RUPI voucher is generated. This voucher is then received by a vendor who supplies the required planting material to the farmer.
• Upon delivery of the ordered material, the farmer must verify receipt through geo-tagged photos and videos of their field. Only after verification will the IA release funds to the vendor for the e-RUPI voucher. The vendor must upload an invoice of the payment to the portal.
• The IA gathers all necessary documents and forwards them to the CDA for subsidy disbursement, after which the subsidy is released to the IA.
• However, farmers who initiate planting material requests through the platform can only access subsidies at the initial stage

3.What is Horticulture Cluster Development Program (CDP)?

• The Cluster Development Programme (CDP) aims to capitalize on the unique characteristics of horticulture clusters and foster comprehensive and market-driven development across various stages, including preproduction, production, post-harvest management, logistics, branding, and marketing.
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare (MoA&FW) has identified 55 horticulture clusters, with 12 chosen initially for the pilot launch.
• Following the insights gained from the pilot phase, the program will expand to cover all 55 clusters.
• The lessons learned from the pilot implementation will inform policy decisions and operational strategies for nationwide implementation across all horticulture clusters in India.

The key objectives of the program are:

a) Addressing the entire horticulture value chain comprehensively, from pre-production to marketing, to enhance competitiveness in domestic and international markets.

b) Minimizing losses during harvesting and post-harvest stages by enhancing infrastructure for post-harvest handling, value addition, and market connections.

c) Introducing innovative technologies and practices to boost the global competitiveness of specific cluster crops.

d) Coordinating resources and aligning government schemes to integrate stakeholders into global value chains.

e) Enhancing stakeholders' capacity and increasing farmers' income through tailored interventions, including brand promotion.

Financial support will be extended by the National Horticulture Board to Implementing Agencies through appointed Cluster Development Agencies (CDAs) for respective clusters. The clusters are categorized into Mega, Midi, and Mini based on their area coverage, with corresponding financial assistance levels provided as follows:

4.What is e-RUPI?

• e-RUPI serves as a digital voucher accessible to beneficiaries via SMS or QR code on their mobile devices. It functions as a prepaid voucher that can be redeemed at any authorized center.
• For instance, if the government aims to cover specific treatment costs for an employee at a designated hospital, it can issue an e-RUPI voucher for the predetermined amount through a partner bank.
• The recipient will then receive the voucher via SMS or QR code on their feature phone or smartphone. They can proceed to the designated hospital, utilize the services, and settle the payment using the e-RUPI voucher received on their phone.
• In essence, e-RUPI represents a single-use, contactless, and cashless payment method that allows users to redeem the voucher without requiring a card, digital payments app, or internet banking access.
• It is distinct from digital currency, which the Reserve Bank of India is exploring, as e-RUPI is specific to individuals and purposes.
• Notably, e-RUPI does not mandate the beneficiary to possess a bank account, setting it apart from other digital payment methods. It facilitates an uncomplicated, contactless redemption process without the need for personal information sharing.
• Moreover, e-RUPI is compatible with basic phones, enabling usage by individuals without smartphones or in areas lacking internet connectivity. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), responsible for overseeing India's digital payments ecosystem, has introduced e-RUPI to promote cashless transactions