Himachal to Lead India by Formulating First-Ever Horticulture Policy: CM Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Himachal to Lead India by Formulating First-Ever Horticulture Policy: CM Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Rs. 1292 Crore Project to Cover 6,000 Hectares Across Seven Districts**

Himachal Pradesh is set to become the first state in India to develop a comprehensive Horticulture Policy aimed at enhancing fruit production and transforming the region into the “Fruit Bowl of India.” Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made this announcement while reviewing the H.P. Shiva Project, an initiative spearheaded by the Horticulture Department.

The Rs. 1292 crore H.P. Shiva Project will cover 6,000 hectares across seven districts, aiming to boost horticultural output in the state. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the role of **inter-cropping**, with fruit saplings like guava, citrus fruits, pomegranate, dragon fruit, blueberry, and jackfruit being planted in two phases.

The state government has set ambitious goals under this project, with 60 lakh fruit saplings to be planted by 2028. Of the total area, 4,000 hectares will be covered in the first phase, and the remaining 2,000 hectares will be developed in the second phase. By 2032, the project is expected to yield 1.30 lakh metric tonnes of fruit, generating approximately Rs. 230 crore in annual trade value.

Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the importance of integrating small and marginal farmers into the project to strengthen the rural economy. With 70% of the state’s population residing in rural areas, the initiative will provide a critical boost to their livelihood. The government aims to uplift the farming community by promoting sustainable horticulture practices.

The project is set to create direct and indirect employment for approximately 82,500 individuals. In addition, the Chief Minister has directed the Horticulture Department to incorporate information technology and modern agricultural techniques into the project. This will help farmers secure better prices for their produce, thereby improving profitability.

The government has also pledged to offer technical support and handholding to farmers, ensuring the project’s success. “Our aim is not just to increase fruit production but also to provide the right infrastructure and technical expertise to ensure long-term benefits for the farming community,” said the CM.

The review meeting was attended by Secretary Horticulture Priyanka Basu, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Director of Horticulture Vinay Singh, and other senior officials.

Himachal Pradesh’s pioneering Horticulture Policy and the H.P. Shiva Project promise to reshape the state’s agricultural landscape, positioning it as a leader in fruit production. With a clear focus on sustainability, economic upliftment, and job creation, this initiative stands as a model for other states to follow.

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