HP Agri Minister Urges Scientists to Encourage Natural Farming

He urged agricultural specialists to encourage farmers to practice traditional and natural farming methods. He urged them to address farmer issues on their doorstep so that they may profit from farm technology.

Kumar stated that the administration was striving to change the structure of the state's agriculture and animal husbandry sectors in order to enhance farmers' financial situation.

"As Agriculture Minister, I am working to promote traditional and organic farming while reducing the use of chemical fertilizers." "The state government will provide loans at 2% interest to encourage new ventures in agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, and fisheries," he added.

He also stated that the state government would launch a 'Him Unnati Yojana' for the general growth of the agriculture sector. Clusters of milk, legumes, vegetables, fruits, flowers, and cash crops would be produced under this strategy based on the capacity of the particular area.

The Agriculture, Horticulture, Jal Shakti, Animal Husbandry, and Rural Development departments, according to the Minister, have been asked to make these works cluster-based. He stated that the government intended to connect rural women's self-help groups with self-employment prospects. "The government will buy cow milk from farmers at Rs 80 per kg and buffalo milk at Rs 100 per kg, from which different products will be prepared and sold in the market," he explained.

Speaking about the state government's aim to promote Kangra district as a tourism capital, Kumar said a tourism development scheme was being launched with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank worth Rs 1,311 crore.

The minister praised local progressive farmers who were adopting natural farming practices and diversifying their agricultural crops.

Rahul Katoch, Deputy Director, Agriculture, informed him of the department's efforts and farmer-focused programs. Scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras, agriculture officers, veterinarians, and IFFCO Limited personnel informed farmers about fertilizer use and the most recent agricultural and animal husbandry information.