HP makes Rs 150 crore plan for developing horticulture

Mandi, Mar 19 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Minister Narender Brakta today said an ambitious plan had been drawn up to develop horticulture in a scientific manner for poducing world class fruits and compete with the international market.

The Rs 150 crore horticulture plan had been forwarded to the Centre for approval, he said at a press conference here.

A state-wide survey had been conducted to identify areas suitable for growing different varieties of fruits in the state and farmers were being advised to grow only the recommended varieties suggested by the horticulture scientists, he said.

Mr Bragta is currently visiting different parts of the state and holding interaction with fruit growers, officials of the department, media-persons and members of the Panchyati Raj Institutions to know their difficulties so that their problems could be solved on the spot.

Replying to a question, he said regular progress report of field work done by the horticulture staff would be made mandatory to monitor their performance. He expressed hope that horticulture would become a good source of income to the farmers.

To another question, he said it was paramount to go for diversification of agriculture and adopt mixed farming by adopting horticulture, animal husbandary, off-season vegetables etc. He also agreed that small holdings were a stumbling block in the way of adopting scientific and mechanical production of fruits.

UNI XC AS PS SR BST2017