Agriculture, tourism sectors future of state: Vikramaditya

Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh today attended a district-level farmers’ fair in Banuti village, Shimla, where he emphasised that the future of Himachal Pradesh lies in tourism and agriculture. As the chief guest at the event, he highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to boost tourism activities in rural areas while ensuring the welfare of farmers.

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Singh pointed out that agriculture remains a backbone of the state’s economy, with nearly 69 per cent of the population directly or indirectly dependent on it. He assured farmers that the government is implementing crucial schemes to increase their income and reduce cultivation costs. He noted that more than 2,09,000 farmers and horticulturists in Himachal Pradesh have embraced natural farming, covering 99 per cent of the state’s panchayats and over 36,000 hectares of land. In Shimla district alone, over 24,000 farmers have adopted this sustainable farming method.

To help farmers secure fair prices for their produce, the government has introduced a self-certification system. Singh mentioned that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s recent Budget announcements include initiatives to ensure fair market prices for natural farming products. Under these measures, maize grown through natural farming will be purchased at Rs 40 per kg, and wheat at Rs 60 per kg, making these the highest minimum support prices (MSP) in the country.

Further, Singh elaborated on several government initiatives aimed at supporting agriculture and horticulture. These include increasing the MSP for wheat, maize, and turmeric and introducing an agricultural loan interest subsidy scheme. Under this scheme, farmers will receive a 50 per cent interest subsidy on loans, easing their financial burden. Additionally, dairy farmers stand to benefit from the increased prices of cow and buffalo milk, with rates rising from Rs 45 to Rs 51 per litre and Rs 55 to Rs 61 per litre, respectively.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by farmers in Shimla due to poor road connectivity, Singh assured that the government is working to improve infrastructure and provide better market access. He also noted that efforts are underway in collaboration with the Water Resources and Agriculture departments to enhance irrigation facilities.

Encouraging farmers to work collectively to promote natural farming, Singh stressed the importance of sustainable agricultural practices for a prosperous future. He also announced that an employment fair would be held in Banuti next month, organised by the Department of Labour and Employment. The event will feature multinational companies operating in the state, offering local youth employment opportunities close to home.

As part of the event, twelve farmers were honoured with certificates of excellence for their outstanding contributions to natural farming. Singh concluded by urging farmers to continue their efforts in making Himachal Pradesh a model state for agriculture and sustainable development.