SHIMLA — Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi on Friday set a strict deadline of February 28, 2027, to complete and hand over all Phase 1 clusters under the ADB-funded HP SHIVA Project, warning that substandard saplings and project delays will trigger swift penalties.
Speaking to reporters after reviewing operations across seven districts—Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra, Solan, Sirmaur, and Una—Negi said contractors and officials missing the cutoff will face stern action.
"We will not accept low-grade planting material or missed timelines," Negi said. "Every cluster must be fully developed to technical standards and delivered directly to our growers."
Phase 1 Progress: Of the 3,000-hectare target, 2,700 hectares are developed, with plantation finished across 1,900 hectares. The remaining area—focused on winter crops like plum and persimmon—will wrap up by early 2027.
Farmer Impact: Phase 1 spans 331 clusters, directly benefiting 10,646 farm families with drip irrigation, lift schemes, and solar fencing.
Phase 2 Pipeline: Around 2,500 hectares have been identified, with surveys underway on 2,153 hectares. DPRs for 1,500 hectares are with the Asian Development Bank, and tenders are slated to open in late October following ADB clearance.
Negi ordered nursery operators to supply strictly certified stock, reiterating the state’s drive to scale commercial subtropical horticulture across the foothills.
