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Himachal Sets Natural Farming Target, Boosts MSP for Eco-Friendly Crops

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a target to integrate one lakh farmers with natural farming this year. The state has already seen over 222,000 farmer families adopt the practice, with nearly 200,000 receiving certificates. To incentivize farmers, the government has significantly increased the Minimum Support Price for key naturally grown crops like wheat and turmeric. The Pangi subdivision has been declared the state's first fully natural farming area, and produce is being marketed under the 'Him' brand.

Key Points: Himachal Promotes Natural Farming, Increases MSP for Crops

  • 1 lakh farmer integration target
  • 222,893 families already adopted natural farming
  • MSP increased for wheat, maize, turmeric
  • Pangi subdivision declared first fully natural farming area
  • 'Him' brand for marketing natural produce
2 min read

Himachal promoting natural farming in big way, says CM Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh aims to bring 1 lakh farmers into natural farming, increases MSP for wheat, maize, and turmeric under Prakritik Kheti scheme.

"The state government is offering the highest minimum support price (MSP) in the country for naturally grown produce - CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu"

Shimla, April 7

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Tuesday that the Agriculture Department has set a target to integrate one lakh farmers with natural farming this year.

He noted that the state government is actively promoting natural farming and encouraging farmers to adopt this method, as it enables them to earn higher profits at lower costs.

As of now, 222,893 farmer and horticulturist families have adopted natural farming practices.

The Chief Minister in a statement said that more than two lakh farmers engaged in natural farming have been registered, of which 198,000 have already been issued certificates.

Under the Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana the use of chemical inputs is discouraged, while inputs based on indigenous cow dung, cow urine and local plant resources are promoted.

The key objectives of the scheme include environmental conservation, promotion of crop diversification, and reduction in the cost of cultivation.

Chief Minister Sukhu said the state government is offering the highest minimum support price (MSP) in the country for naturally grown produce to ensure fair returns for farmers.

This year, the MSP for naturally grown wheat has been increased from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg, maize from Rs 40 to Rs 50, barley from the Pangi Valley from Rs 60 to Rs 80, and natural turmeric from Rs 90 to Rs 150 per kg.

The Pangi subdivision has been declared the state's first fully natural farming subdivision.

Ginger has also been brought under the MSP for the first time at Rs 30 per kg.

Additionally, the procurement price of cow milk has been enhanced to Rs 61 per litre and buffalo milk to Rs 71 per litre.

The Chief Minister said agriculture remains the backbone of the state's economy, as nearly 90 per cent of the population lives in rural areas, with 53.95 per cent directly dependent on agriculture for their livelihood.

This sector contributes about 14.70 per cent to the state's Gross Domestic Product, he added.

Keeping this in view, the state government is aiming to strengthening the rural economy through progressive policies and farmer-friendly initiatives.

To ensure better and remunerative prices for farmers, naturally produced maize and wheat flour are being marketed under the brand name 'Him'.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good initiative, but the real challenge is marketing. Creating the 'Him' brand is a smart move. Hope they ensure proper supply chains so farmers actually get these promised prices. Too often, schemes fail at the last mile.
A
Aman W
Rs 80 per kg for wheat! That's a game-changer for small farmers. Chemical fertilizers are becoming so expensive. Going back to our traditional methods with desi cow inputs makes both economic and environmental sense. Jai Kisan!
S
Sarah B
As someone who buys organic produce, I'm thrilled. The certification for 2 lakh farmers adds credibility. I will actively look for the 'Him' brand now. Healthier food and supporting farmers directly is a win-win.
V
Vikram M
While I appreciate the focus on natural farming, I hope the government is also investing in research and extension services. Simply telling farmers to stop chemicals isn't enough. They need training and support to manage pests and yield naturally. The intent is good, but execution is key.
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Nisha Z
Declaring Pangi subdivision as fully natural is a bold and inspiring step! It shows real commitment. The increase in milk procurement prices is also a huge relief for dairy farmers. Hope this model succeeds and is replicated.

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