Is there subsidy for setting up a cold storage for fruits and vegetables under horticulture schemes?

Yes, cold storage is supported, but the route depends on the size. Smaller cold storage units can come under MIDH through the State Horticulture Department, while larger commercial cold storage projects are typically handled by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) as a credit linked back ended subsidy. In both, the subsidy is a share of a capacity based cost norm, calculated per metric tonne of storage, with the share often higher in hilly and North Eastern states. Because cold storage is capital heavy, a bank loan and a detailed project report are usually required, and the subsidy is released after the unit is built, inspected and found to match the sanctioned capacity and technical specs. Eligibility generally includes individuals, FPOs, cooperatives and companies. The exact per tonne norm, subsidy percentage, minimum capacity, and whether MIDH or NHB applies to your size all vary, so confirm on your state horticulture portal for the smaller MIDH route and on the NHB website for larger projects, and decide the route before you finalise the bank loan.