High value nut mission to open new avenues of prosperity for Himachal horticulturists: CM

Shimla, Jul 12 (PTI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday said to strengthen Himachal Pradesh's horticulture sector and enhance farmers' incomes, the state government will launch the High Value Nut Mission for 2026 to 2031. Sukhu, in a statement issued here, stated that it will promote the cultivation of high-value temperate nut crops, including walnut, almond, apricot and pine nut (chilgoza). "The mission seeks to address key challenges confronting the sector such as ageing orchards, low productivity, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure and limited value-addition opportunities. It aims to create a robust ecosystem for sustainable horticultural growth through scientific orchard management, modern infrastructure and improved market access," he said. "As part of the mission, around 1,000 hectares will be covered under orchard rejuvenation and high-density plantation. Of this, 900 hectares of old and low-yielding orchards will be rejuvenated through scientific interventions such as canopy management, top-working, replacement of senile trees, soil health improvement and efficient water management practices. "In addition, 100 hectares will be developed as model high-density plantations equipped with quality planting material, micro-irrigation systems, climate-resilient cultivation practices and other modern technologies," he said. The CM further said to ensure the availability of certified, disease-free planting material, the government will establish four hi-tech nurseries and two centres of excellence in major nut-growing regions. He added that special emphasis on chilgoza conservation, along with targeted support for women, tribal communities and farmer producer organisations, would ensure inclusive and sustainable development, benefiting thousands of horticulture families across Himachal Pradesh. PTI COR TRB