Correct Answer: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

The NHM was launched by the Government of India to promote holistic growth in the horticulture sector and enhance the productivity, quality, and profitability of horticultural crops. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare plays a key role in formulating policies, providing financial support, and coordinating the implementation of various horticulture-related programs and initiatives.

The NHM aims to strengthen the horticulture value chain by addressing production constraints, supporting infrastructure development, promoting post-harvest management and value addition, and facilitating market access for horticultural produce. It also focuses on capacity building, research and development, and technology dissemination to enhance the skills and knowledge of farmers and stakeholders in the horticulture sector.

While the National Horticulture Board (NHB), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are also involved in various aspects of horticulture development, the primary responsibility for implementing the NHM lies with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.