· 3,500 farmers and orchardists to benefit across 4,000 hectares
Horticulture is one of the key pillars of Himachal Pradesh’s economy. Owing to the State Government’s visionary policies and the progressive adoption of modern practices by farmers and orchardists, the sector has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. The government has adopted a farmer-centric approach to strengthen horticulture through scientific cultivation methods, modern infrastructure, climate-resilient technologies and improved market access. Over the past three years, the Department of Horticulture has implemented several major initiatives aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes, enhancing productivity and promoting sustainable horticultural practices across the state.
To promote diversification and expansion in horticulture, nearly 870 hectares of additional area has been brought under orchards, hybrid vegetables and spice cultivation under the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, benefiting around 300 farmers and orchardists.
In addition, seven frontline demonstration plots have been established to showcase the cultivation of high-value fruit crops such as avocado, blueberry and dragon fruit.
Under the HP SHIVA Project, approximately 4,000 hectares of land is being brought under high-density orchards, which will benefit nearly 3,500 farmers and orchardists.
Recognizing the importance of protected cultivation, the State Government has expanded greenhouse farming. During the past three years, under the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission and the Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Development Scheme, an investment of around Rs. 16 crore has enabled the development of nearly 1.89 lakh square metres of area under polyhouses, benefiting approximately 900 farmers and orchardists.
This initiative has enabled farmers to cultivate high-value vegetables and flowers throughout the year, resulting in significant improvements in productivity and income.
The State Government has also given high priority to protecting orchards from weather-related damage. Over the last three years, nearly 1,000 hectares have been covered under anti-hail nets, with financial assistance of around Rs. 44 crore provided to 6,454 farmers. These measures have significantly reduced crop losses caused by hailstorms and adverse weather, ensuring greater income security for orchardists.
Under various horticulture development schemes, around 12,739 farmers have received subsidies to purchase power tillers, power sprayers and other farm machinery, supported by an investment of approximately Rs. 39 crore. The use of modern farm equipment has reduced dependence on manual labour while improving operational efficiency in orchards.
During the past three years, the Department of Horticulture has also established 53 mushroom production and compost-making units with an investment of approximately Rs. 4.24 crore. These units have created additional income opportunities for farmers, orchardists and rural entrepreneurs.
The State Government has also focused on strengthening post-harvest management and value-addition infrastructure. With an investment of around Rs. 11.44 crore, the private sector has established four cold rooms, two cold storage units, two grading lines and two food processing units. These facilities are helping reduce post-harvest losses, improve product quality and enhance market competitiveness.
Efficient water management remains one of the Government’s top priorities. Under the “Per Drop, More Crop” scheme, nearly 2,000 hectares have been brought under micro-irrigation systems, benefiting 2,185 farmers through an investment of around Rs. 10.70 crore. These water-efficient technologies are promoting sustainable horticulture and enhancing resilience to climate change.
The Government of Himachal Pradesh is committed to making horticulture more profitable, sustainable and competitive by providing farmers and orchardists with modern technology, quality planting material, scientific advisory services, robust marketing systems and essential infrastructure. As a result of the Government’s farmer-centric policies and visionary initiatives, the horticulture sector in the state is reaching new heights, leading to a substantial increase in the incomes of farmers and orchardists.
