'Him Unnati' Scheme to Revolutionize Agriculture in Himachal: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh, known for its challenging topography and limited landholding, faces significant obstacles in agriculture compared to its neighboring states. In a bid to overcome these challenges and ensure the integrated development of agriculture, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced the launch of the area-based Integrated and Comprehensive Agriculture Development Scheme called 'Him Unnati.'

Addressing the media, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the need to uplift the socio-economic conditions of farming families in the state. By converging existing schemes of the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Department and incorporating sub-projects of JICA Phase-II, "Him Unnati" aims to bring about a positive transformation in the agricultural sector.

The initial phase of the scheme will receive an allocation of Rs 150 crore, with provisions for clusters specializing in various agricultural activities such as milk production, pulses, millets, vegetables, fruits, flowers, cash crops, and natural farming.

Under this scheme, a total of 2600 clusters will be developed across the state over the next five years. For the current year, the agriculture department has identified 51 clusters for the Kharif cropping season, with an additional 286 clusters planned for the Rabi season. A budget provision of Rs 25 crore has been made for the implementation of the scheme in the current year.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu acknowledged that while cash crops, vegetable production, and off-season crops have been encouraged through various small schemes in the past, farmers have not been able to reap their full benefits. He emphasized that "Him Unnati" is set to redefine agriculture in the state by adopting a comprehensive development approach that targets specific areas and clusters. Tailored plans will be formulated based on local climate, geography, and soil conditions, ensuring integrated and sustainable agricultural growth throughout the state.

In another significant step toward transforming Himachal Pradesh into a "fruit state," the state government is moving forward with the Himachal Pradesh Subtropical Horticulture, Irrigation & Value Addition (HPSHIVA) Project. This project aims to harness the abundant agro-climatic conditions of the state.

Chief Minister Sukhu revealed that the HPSHIVA Project plans to develop 6,000 hectares of land across 28 Development Blocks in seven districts, namely Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur, and Una, which have a subtropical climate. The project has a total cost of Rs 1292 crore, with the Asian Development Bank contributing Rs 1030 crore and the state government providing Rs 262 crore.

The HPSHIVA Project adopts a "One Crop One Cluster" approach, focusing on fruits such as oranges, guavas, pomegranates, and more. Private landowners will have the opportunity to participate in this venture. Additionally, the project aims to plant one crore saplings, enhancing fruit production and reducing post-harvest losses through the development of robust value chain infrastructure.