Kamrau: Nestled along the Shilai-Paonta Sahib road in the Trans-Giri region of Sirmaur district, Kamrau stands as one of the largest villages in Himachal Pradesh.
Home to approximately 400 families and nearly 3,000 individuals, this village is a hub of agricultural activity with immense potential for horticulture and mining-based livelihoods.
Kamrau's agricultural roots run deep, and the region's variable climate, influenced by indirect chills from Churdhar, offers ideal conditions for diverse crops.
Recognizing this potential, the Himachal Pradesh government initiated efforts in 1956 to introduce new fruits like persimmons and olives under the Indo-German project.
These efforts led to the establishment of several Horticulture Department’s Progeny-cum-Demonstration Orchards (PCDOs) in Sirmaur, including a persimmon orchard in Kamrau-Timbi and an olive orchard near Jarwa in Haripurdhar.
Sirmaur's agricultural significance extends beyond Kamrau. The district boasts Nagpuri oranges originating from Dhaula Kuan, Rajgarh's renowned peaches, and Dun Valley's strawberries. Ginger (processed into dry ginger), turmeric, and garlic also contribute significantly to the local economy, providing sustainable livelihoods for many families.
Beyond agriculture, limestone mining is another critical economic activity in the region, with prospects for long-term sustainability.
The people of Kamrau and the Trans-Giri area are known for their resilience and hardworking nature.
They are often seen dressed in traditional attire—pajamas (suthan), long shirts (khelka), white Gandhi caps, and woolen shawls (loiya).
The community thrives on a hearty traditional diet and showcases vibrant cultural expressions through singing and dancing.
Despite the government’s horticultural initiatives, fruits like persimmons and olives have struggled to gain acceptance among growers and consumers due to their limited appeal for direct consumption.
However, the region holds vast potential for future horticultural expansion, including apple cultivation, given its favorable climate and topography.
Kamrau’s unique blend of agriculture, cultural richness, and natural resources positions it as a promising hub for development, offering opportunities to enhance the livelihoods of its hardworking residents.
