Focus on agriculture to boost rural economy

Continuing the thrust on agriculture, mainly natural farming, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced several measures to strengthen the rural economy. In an attempt to give further push to natural farming in the state, the Chief Minister announced the enhancement of MSP for naturally grown wheat from Rs 40 to Rs 60 and maize from Rs 30 to Rs 40.

“India is the largest consumer, producer and exporter of turmeric. The turmeric grown here has high curcumin content and the region has a golden opportunity to advance in the production of natural turmeric,” said Sukhu, adding that a spice park will be established in Hamirpur district. Besides, he announced that all government farms under the Agriculture Department will be brought under natural farming. “Besides, one lakh additional farmers will be associated with natural farming in the upcoming financial year,” the CM said.

The CM also announced ‘Agriculture Loan Interest Subvention Scheme’ for the farmers whose land is on the verge of getting auctioned. One-time settlement policy will be introduced to repay an agricultural loan of Rs 3 lakh. Under this scheme, 50 per cent of the interest on the principal amount will be borne by the government. The CM said a Potato Processing Plant, at a cost of Rs 20 crore, would be established in district Una.

Further, the CM enhanced the MSP of cow milk from Rs 45 to Rs 51, and buffalo milk from Rs 55 to Rs 61. The other major announcements in animal husbandry include the construction of a store in Banuri, Palampur for proper maintenance of wool, increase in freight subsidy from Rs 1.5 to Rs 3 to milk societies.

As for horticulture, a Centre of Excellence will be established to facilitate the orchardists in marketing, processing etc., of their produce. Also, 114 ongoing lift irrigation schemes will be completed in this financial year. Also, digital agritech services will be created to strengthen the horticulture sector.