Shimla, July 7:
In a major push to cut post-harvest losses and improve income for fruit growers, the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Department on Monday signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) to set up solar-powered micro cold storage systems across the state.
“This initiative is a game changer,” said Vinay Singh, Director of Horticulture, after the MoU signing.
“It will help farmers store their produce longer, get better prices, reduce wastage, and adopt eco-friendly technology — all while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions".
"We’re moving towards a future where farming is profitable and sustainable.”
Each cold storage unit will have a 10-metric-tonne capacity and run on solar power, costing around ₹20 lakh.
Under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), the government will provide a ₹10 lakh subsidy, with no bank loan required for beneficiaries.
Singh added, “By strengthening the cold chain at the grassroots, we are not only enhancing farmers’ income but also creating a model that aligns with the India Cooling Action Plan.
This is about self-reliance, environmental protection, and smart farming all rolled into one.”
Highlights of the Scheme:
Aimed at addressing Himachal’s 5,000 MT/month cold storage gap.
EESL to handle installation, technical compliance, AMC, and IoT-based monitoring.
Four-year evaluation roadmap to track performance and ensure transparency.
Direct benefit transfer of subsidies into farmers’ accounts.
Major Benefits:
Reduced wastage of fruits and vegetables
Higher returns and stable pricing for farmers
Clean, energy-efficient technology
Strengthening of the local agricultural value chain
Long-term environmental and climate benefits
The MoU was signed in presence of Secretary Horticulture C. Palrasu, between Director Vinay Singh and Anil Chaudhary, Chief General Manager of EESL.
📩 For more info, contact:
Director, Department of Horticulture, HP
📧
