Addressing the people on the occasion, Sukhu said that this year the disaster caused by heavy rains had wreaked havoc and the link roads, especially in the apple belts of the state, were damaged badly. He stated: “Our government restored these roads on priority basis, making sure that the produce is delivered to the market on time, thereby protecting horticulturists from financial loss.” He added that the State Government had announced a historic increase of Rs 1.50 in the support price of apples, which now stood at rupees 12 per kg. This time the procurement of apples has been done on kilo basis and the universal carton system is being implemented so that the orchardists get fair prices for their produce, remarked the CM.
The government was continuously working for the upliftment and convenience of the horticulturists, said the Chief Minister, adding that “eight grading/packing houses, Controlled Atmosphere (CA) and Cold Stores are being established in Bhawanagar, Sandasu, Anu, Chopal, Jabli, Sundernagar, Dattnagar and Khadapathar for the convenience of the farmers”.
Sukhu said that during his recent visit to Dubai, he appealed to the investors there to explore the possibilities of marketing the horticulture products of Himachal Pradesh in Dubai. He added that investors showed interest and expressed willingness to visit Himachal Pradesh in coming January to explore the options and areas of investments. He said: “The State Government was taking many effective steps to protect the horticulturists from exploitation and provide them various benefits to strengthen their finances.”
He directed the officials to operate the properties of Himachal Pradesh Marketing Committee (HPMC) in a way that it benefits the horticulturists of the state. The Chief Minister said: “Through HPMC, gardening tools, fertilisers, pesticides and fungicides are being made available at a very low cost. We are taking several steps to safeguard the interests of the horticulturists and will continue to do so in future as well.”
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