Shimla- State Government has targeted to develop 2600 clusters under Him Unnati and 6000 clusters under HPSHIVA Project over the next five year.
According to government spokesperson, under guidance of CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the government has planed to adopt an area-based, cluster-oriented approach to agricultural development under Him Unnati.
This comprehensive development scheme will integrate existing schemes of the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Department, as well as sub-projects of JICA Phase-II.
With an initial allocation of Rs. 150 crore, "Him Unnati" will focus on clusters specializing in milk production, pulses, millets, vegetables, fruits, flowers, cash crops, and natural farming.
Over 2600 clusters will be developed over the next five years, providing a significant boost to the state's agricultural sector.
This year alone, 51 clusters have been designated for the Kharif cropping season, with an additional 286 clusters planned for the Rabi season with help of Rs 25 crore budget this year.
HPSHIVA Project aims to develop 6,000 hectares of land across 28 Development Blocks in seven districts, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, Sirmaur, and Una. These districts have a subtropical climate.
HPSHIVA project has Rs 1292 crore, with the Asian Development Bank contributing Rs. 1030 crore and the state government contributing Rs. 262 crore.
HPSHIVA Project adopts a "One Crop One Cluster" approach, focusing on fruits such as oranges, guavas, pomegranates, and more.
Private landowners will be encouraged to participate in the venture, with one crore saplings set to be planted to enhance fruit production.
The project also aims to reduce post-harvest losses by developing a robust value chain infrastructure. This will benefit 15,000 agro-horticulture-based families.