Nut mission will enhance productivity, profits: Himachal CM

The state government will launch the High Value Nut Mission to strengthen the state's horticulture sector and enhance farmers' incomes. It would promote the cultivation of high-value temperate nut crops, including walnut, almond, apricot and pine nut (chilgoza).

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the mission would usher in a new phase of growth, diversification and modernisation in the horticulture sector. He said the state possesses immense potential for the cultivation of temperate nut crops and the mission would enable farmers to realise this potential through modern technology, quality planting material and improved infrastructure.

“The initiative would significantly enhance productivity, improve profitability and generate new employment opportunities for rural youth, thereby strengthening the rural economy,” he said.

Sukhu further said the mission’s focus on orchard rejuvenation, value addition, branding and export promotion would enable growers to secure higher returns from their produce. He added that special emphasis on chilgoza conservation, along with targeted support for women, tribal communities and Farmer Producer Organizations, would ensure inclusive and sustainable development, benefiting thousands of horticulture families across Himachal Pradesh.

The mission seeks to address key challenges confronting the sector such as ageing orchards, low productivity, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure and limited value-addition opportunities. As part of the mission, around 1,000 hectares will be covered under orchard rejuvenation and high-density plantation.