Government plans steps to push horticulture
The state government has taken a series of farmer-centric initiatives, including delivering six lakh premium saplings and building the world’s first geothermal storage facility, to transform the horticulture sector.
Horticulture forms the backbone of the agricultural economy of the state, with 234 lakh hectares dedicated to fruit cultivation generating an annual income of Rs 5,000 crore. The sector provides direct and indirect employment to nine lakh people.
Extending shelf life of fruits
The state has partnered with Iceland to introduce the world's first controlled-environment storage using geothermal technology, to be constructed in Tapri, Kinnaur. This facility will revolutionise the storage of horticultural produce by maintaining optimal conditions and extending the shelf life of fruits, allowing gardeners to maximise their profits. — A government spokesperson
According to a government spokesperson, a notable achievement this year was the preparation of six lakh A-grade apple saplings across 93 nurseries. “For the first time, such quality saplings of 32 varieties will be distributed, ensuring that gardeners have access to the best plants,” he said, adding that the government was setting a higher standard for yield and quality.
Eight new apple varieties had also been developed and would be offered at affordable prices to small and marginal farmers, further supporting their growth, he said.
In another development, the state has partnered with Iceland to introduce the world’s first controlled-environment storage (CA) using geothermal technology, to be constructed in Tapri, Kinnaur.
“This facility will revolutionise the storage of horticultural produce by maintaining optimal conditions and extending the shelf life of fruits, allowing gardeners to maximise their profits. Experts from Iceland will provide training to local horticulturists, equipping them with cutting-edge technology to further boost productivity,” the spokesperson said.
The reduction of GST on apple cartons from 18 per cent to 12 per cent is another key victory to benefit the horticulturists of the state, making packaging more affordable and resulting in increased profitability. The state has also reinstated subsidies on pesticides and made provisions for irrigation and high-density fruit plantation, with an allocation of Rs 531 crore towards the sector this year.
“These comprehensive measures are designed to uplift small and large-scale farmers alike,” the spokesperson said. “The ambitious HP Shiva Project is yet another feather in the state’s cap. With a budget of Rs 1,292 crore, the project will cover 6,000 hectares across seven districts by 2028, introducing scientific cultivation techniques and planting 60 lakh fruit saplings.”
The project aims to revolutionise subtropical fruit farming, boosting high-income crops like dragon fruit, avocado and macadamia nuts.
By collaborating with the Yashwant Singh Parmar Horticulture and Forestry University, Nauni, the state is laying the foundation for sustainable horticultural practices and higher income for farmers. The spokesperson said horticulture tourism was also gaining momentum, with the state identifying cluster sites to promote agro-tourism.
This initiative was expected to provide additional revenue streams for farmers, further strengthening their economy.
“The state government is committed to making the state self-reliant by 2027, and the wealthiest in the country by 2032. With a focus on global competitiveness and innovation, the state is empowering its horticulturists to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” said the spokesperson.
