SHIMLA/KALPA: In tribal belt of Kinnaur, the farmers have made strides in an "ABC" economy: Apple, Badaam (Almond), and Chilgoza. Now, if it goes as targeted, the tribal farmers are soon on a way to promoting "Z" farming, adding Zira (Black Cumin) and millets to their ABC economy.
Kinnaur's tribal farmers are diversifying their traditional ABC economy with Kala Zira and millets, supported by the state government's commitment to natural farming practices using drones where tough terrain remains an issue.
There is potential of Kala Zira and millets in Kinnaur and Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry has done a spade work on how to add ‘Z’ to their economy.
But the main handicap mainly for the poor low caste tribals is: They lack land and other resources.
The 'Nautor' land can resolve this land issue and ABCZ economy can transform their lives if the government has a "will" to do redeem their woes.
Apple has reached the high altitude of Pooh in Kinnaur and Samdoh and Tabo in Spiti, Sangla, Kalpa and most of the high land valleys of Kinnaur. 
The progressive farmers have switched over to high density apple orchards in Kalpa and other places and are making good money.
So is the case with Badaam while Chilgoza is harvested from the forest by the landlord tribals under their traditional bartandari rights.
Tourism is another apple cart in which the rich tribals are making good money.
But the plight of poor tribals is what should be focus of the government.
HP Governor ShivPratap Shukla who was a three days long tour of Kinnaur got a bird's eye view of farming in Kinnaur today and urged farmers to embrace millet farming and cultivate black cumin(Zira,Kala).
He also encouraged scientists to support and train farmers, and the administration to develop marketing systems and aid self-help groups.
Governor Shukla stressed the importance of natural farming, believing it could boost both farmers' income and the state's well-being.
He referred to the G-20 summit, where leaders sampled millet-based meals from India, highlighting the global demand for such products to encourage tribals to promote millets and Kala Zira.
He honoured progressive farmers and explored an exhibition showcasing natural farm products.
Dr. Indra Dev, Acting Vice Chancellor of Horticulture University discussed the activities of the Regional Horticulture Research and Training Center in Sharbo in Kinnaur.
Progressive farmers shared their experiences in various agricultural endeavors including ABC and Z products.
Before the Kisan Mela event, Governor Shukla visited the Vegetable Production Research Center at Kalpa, emphasizing the use of drone technology in agriculture to benefit farmers in Kinnaur where tough terrain remains the issue.
He concluded his three-day visit to Kinnaur district with a trip to the green village of Batseri in Kalpa sub-division.
He praised the residents for preserving their culture and customs, noting that even those who leave the district return to contribute to its development upon retirement.
Governor Shukla also emphasized the importance of the vibrant village program and urged Union Ministers to monitor its progress in these villages.
He pledged to restore Sangla Valley's former glory, upgrade roads, and prioritize agricultural development.
