The government of Himachal Pradesh is set to significantly boost the cultivation of stone fruits across the state. Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi announced that the government will provide essential policy support, training, and better research facilities. They are also improving the marketing infrastructure to help farmers. This comes as the state aims to diversify its fruit farming, which is currently dominated by apples.
The announcement was made at a national conclave focused on stone fruit cultivation. This event took place in Thanedhar, Kotgarh, a region known for its fruit production. The Stone Fruits Association of Himachal Pradesh organised the conclave. They worked together with the Department of Horticulture and the University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni. The main goal was to encourage farmers in the temperate areas of Himachal to grow stone fruits alongside apples.
Around 600 farmers attended the conclave. Some farmers even came from other states. Experts from universities, research institutions, and the industry shared their knowledge. Two international experts also joined, coming from Spain and New Zealand. This shows the growing global interest in promoting diverse fruit crops.
During the conclave, experts discussed many important topics. These included modern methods for growing stone fruits, how to choose climate-resilient plant varieties, and ways to prevent fruit diseases. They also talked about managing fruits after harvest, processing them, adding value, and effective marketing strategies. These discussions are vital for farmers to improve their yields and profits.
Minister Negi highlighted a major challenge: the need for high-quality planting material. To address this shortage, the state government has signed a special agreement with an Italian company. This partnership will help produce 50,000 high-density plants. This move is expected to greatly improve the availability of quality saplings for farmers.
Negi also pointed to New Zealand as an example of a country that achieves high-quality produce even on small land areas. He urged farmers in Himachal to focus on improving both the quality and the quantity of their stone fruit production. This focus on quality is key to competing in both domestic and international markets.
Local MLA Kuldeep Singh Rathore stated that such conferences are very beneficial for the overall growth of the horticulture sector in the state. His support underscores the importance of these knowledge-sharing platforms.
The conclave also featured an exhibition. Stalls were set up by the Horticulture Department and various companies. These displays showcased advanced varieties of stone fruits and the latest technological innovations in fruit farming. This provided farmers with practical insights and opportunities to connect with suppliers.
Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, Vice Chancellor of UHF, Nauni, mentioned that the conclave has successfully initiated efforts to boost stone fruit cultivation. The university plans to host the next conclave on stone fruits, ensuring continued focus and support for this sector. The collaboration between the government, universities, and farmer associations is crucial for the success of these initiatives.