Transforming Himachal Pradesh: Harnessing the Power of Agriculture and Horticulture

‘Him Unnati’ set to redefine agriculture in the state: CM

In a groundbreaking move to revive the agricultural sector in Himachal Pradesh, the State Government has unveiled two visionary projects aimed at empowering farmers and revolutionizing the agro-horticulture landscape. The initiatives, named ‘Him Unnati’ and HPSHIVA, are set to bring about comprehensive development and economic prosperity for the predominantly rural state.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Government of Himachal Pradesh aims to overcome the challenges faced by farmers in the region by implementing the area-based Integrated and Comprehensive Agriculture Development Scheme, “Him Unnati.” This pioneering scheme adopts a cluster-oriented approach, taking into account local climate, geography, and soil conditions to ensure targeted and integrated agricultural growth.

By converging existing schemes of the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Department and incorporating sub-projects of JICA Phase-II, “Him Unnati” seeks to uplift the socio-economic conditions of beneficiary families. An initial allocation of Rs. 150 crore has been made for the scheme, which will support clusters specializing in various agricultural activities, including milk production, pulses, millets, vegetables, fruits, flowers, cash crops, and natural farming.

Over the next five years, a total of 2600 clusters will be developed under this scheme, with 51 clusters designated for the ongoing Kharif cropping season. Additionally, approximately 286 clusters will be established during the Rabi season this year, with a budget provision of Rs. 25 crore.

In a significant step towards making Himachal Pradesh a prominent “fruit state,” the state government has also launched the Himachal Pradesh Subtropical Horticulture, Irrigation & Value Addition (HPSHIVA) Project. This project aims to leverage the favorable agro-climatic conditions of the state and focuses on developing 6,000 hectares of land across 28 Development Blocks in seven districts.

With an estimated cost of Rs. 1292 crore, the HPSHIVA Project will be funded by the Asian Development Bank (Rs. 1030 crore) and the state government (Rs. 262 crore). Adopting a “One Crop One Cluster” approach, the project targets the cultivation of fruits such as oranges, guavas, pomegranates, and more, allowing private landowners to participate in the venture. To enhance fruit production and reduce post-harvest losses, an impressive one crore saplings will be planted, accompanied by the development of a robust value chain infrastructure.

The projects also emphasize connecting farmers to markets through the “Beej Se Bazar” concept, which adds value after harvest by implementing scientific and commercial agricultural techniques. Market demand for 14 identified fruits and crops has been carefully considered, and various components of their value chain have been studied to meet marketing requirements effectively.

These initiatives prioritize sustainable growth, increased productivity, and higher incomes for farmers, positioning Himachal Pradesh as a model for agricultural innovation and rural development. The state government’s dedication to harnessing the power of agriculture and horticulture is expected to usher in a new era of prosperity and progress for the people of Himachal Pradesh.