Himachal: A leader in horticulture innovation and growth
Horticulture has always been a vital pillar of Himachal Pradesh’s economy, serving as a significant source of income and employment. In recent years, the sector has undergone a transformative journey thanks to the forward-thinking policies and initiatives of the state government. These efforts have not only elevated the state’s reputation for producing premium-quality fruits and crops but have also positioned Himachal Pradesh as a global leader in sustainable and innovative horticultural practices.
Currently, around 2.36 lakh hectares of land are dedicated to horticulture, producing 6.38 lakh metric tonnes of fruit annually. This sector generates approximately ₹4,476 crore in revenue and provides direct or indirect livelihood to nearly 10 lakh individuals, reinforcing its importance to the state’s socio-economic framework.
Boosting Production and Diversifying Crops
Over the past two years, the government’s focused initiatives have significantly increased production across various sub-sectors. The state produced 25,829 metric tonnes of mushrooms, 4,081 metric tonnes of honey, and cultivated 659 hectares of flowers, diversifying income streams for farmers and tapping into new markets. Additionally, 8,085 hectares of land were brought under fruit cultivation, further expanding the state’s horticultural footprint.
Supporting Orchardists with Quality Inputs
To enhance production and quality, the government has prioritized the supply of high-quality planting material. 25.12 lakh fruit plants were produced, and over 27.64 lakh were distributed to horticulturists. Furthermore, 226 nurseries and 160 Bud Wood Banks were registered under the HP Fruit Nursery Registration and Regulation Act, ensuring consistent access to resilient, high-yield varieties for farmers.
Pioneering Pest Control and Sustainability
The government has also excelled in pest and disease control measures, offering ₹13.64 crore in subsidies for plant protection materials, benefiting fruit growers across the state. Innovative approaches such as biological pest control now cover 1,195 hectares of land, with over 542 horticulturists trained in sustainable practices. These efforts promote healthier plants while minimizing environmental impact.
Fair Pricing Through Market Intervention
Ensuring fair pricing for farmers has been a cornerstone of the state’s horticulture strategy. Under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), 819 procurement centres were established, facilitating the direct sale of apples, mangoes, and citrus fruits. This initiative has benefited farmers significantly, enabling the sale of 89,615 metric tonnes of apples, 12.9 metric tonnes of mangoes, and 50.61 metric tonnes of citrus fruits at fair prices.
Empowering Farmers Through Training
Knowledge-sharing remains central to the government’s vision. Over 1.2 lakh horticulturists have been trained through camps and study tours, empowering them with advanced horticultural techniques and innovations. This focus on skill development fosters a knowledgeable and future-ready workforce.
A Prosperous Path Forward
The state government’s comprehensive measures have turned the horticulture sector into a beacon of economic stability and growth. By supporting farmers with better inputs, equitable pricing, and education, Himachal Pradesh has set a benchmark for sustainable and inclusive development. These efforts not only benefit rural prosperity but also pave the way for a resilient future in horticulture.
