Himachal Pradesh's Bold Steps Towards Natural Farming Initiatives, Says CM Sukhu
Synopsis
On April 7, Himachal Pradesh's CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed ambitious plans to integrate 100,000 farmers into natural farming. With a focus on sustainability and profitability, this initiative aims to transform the agricultural landscape of the state.
Key Takeaways
Ambitious target to integrate 100,000 farmers into natural farming.
Over 200,000 farmers currently registered in the natural farming initiative.
Higher minimum support prices for natural produce ensure better farmer returns.
Environmental conservation and crop diversification are key goals.
Natural farming practices are being supported through local resources.
Shimla, April 7 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, announced on Tuesday that the Agriculture Department aims to involve 100,000 farmers in natural farming this year.
He emphasized that the state government is vigorously advocating for natural farming, motivating farmers to embrace this approach, which allows them to achieve greater profits while minimizing costs.
Currently, 222,893 families of farmers and horticulturists have adopted natural farming techniques.
In his statement, the Chief Minister mentioned that over 200,000 farmers practicing natural farming are now registered, with 198,000 certificates already issued.
Through the Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana, the use of chemical fertilizers is discouraged, while inputs derived from local cow dung, cow urine, and native plant resources are encouraged.
The primary goals of this initiative include environmental protection, promoting crop diversification, and lowering cultivation costs.
CM Sukhu stated that the state is providing the highest minimum support price (MSP) in India for naturally cultivated products to guarantee fair returns for farmers.
This year, the MSP for naturally grown wheat has risen from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg, maize from Rs 40 to Rs 50, barley from the Pangi Valley from Rs 60 to Rs 80, and natural turmeric from Rs 90 to Rs 150 per kg.
Notably, the Pangi subdivision has been recognized as the state's first entirely natural farming subdivision.
For the first time, ginger is now included in the MSP list at Rs 30 per kg.
Furthermore, the procurement price of cow milk has increased to Rs 61 per litre and buffalo milk to Rs 71 per litre.
The Chief Minister reiterated that agriculture is the pillar of the state's economy, with nearly 90% of the population residing in rural areas, 53.95% of whom directly rely on agriculture for their livelihoods.
This sector contributes approximately 14.70% to the state's Gross Domestic Product, he added.
With this in mind, the state government is focused on bolstering the rural economy through progressive policies and initiatives that favor farmers.
To ensure better prices for farmers, naturally produced maize and wheat flour are marketed under the brand name 'Him'.
Point of View
The government aims to empower farmers economically while also ensuring environmental sustainability, making this a noteworthy development in the agricultural landscape.
NationPress
17 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target for integrating farmers into natural farming in Himachal Pradesh?
The target is to integrate 100,000 farmers into natural farming this year.
What incentives are being provided for natural farming?
The state government is providing the highest minimum support prices for naturally cultivated products to ensure fair returns.
What is the significance of the Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana?
This scheme discourages the use of chemical inputs and promotes organic inputs based on local resources.
How many farmers have adopted natural farming practices so far?
As of now, 222,893 farmer and horticulturist families have adopted natural farming.
What is the contribution of agriculture to Himachal Pradesh's economy?
Agriculture contributes approximately 14.70% to the state's Gross Domestic Product.
