NHB Subsidy: Financial Support for Post-Harvest Management Units 2024

The National Horticulture Board (NHB) has intensified its focus on reducing wastage in the agricultural supply chain by offering substantial financial support for Post-Harvest Management (PHM) units. This scheme is designed for exporters who need to establish modern primary processing facilities, including sorting, grading, washing, and specialized packaging lines that meet international phytosanitary standards. Unlike traditional cold storage, PHM support targets the value-addition phase immediately after harvest. ## What this means for exporters Eligible projects can receive a back-ended capital subsidy ranging from 35% to 50% of the total project cost, depending on the geographical location (plains vs. hilly/scheduled areas). As per the NHB Scheme Guidelines, the focus is on integrated projects that link farmers directly to export markets. For an SME exporter, this means a significant reduction in the initial capital expenditure for setting up a pack-house. The application requires a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and a sanctioned term loan from a commercial bank. By leveraging this NHB subsidy, exporters can ensure their produce meets the high-quality demands of EU and US markets while significantly improving their profit margins through better shelf-life management.