Chief Minister Sukhu affirmed that the state government is giving topmost priority to strengthening the rural economy as a cornerstone in realizing the vision of a self-reliant and prosperous Himachal Pradesh. He stated that over the past two and a half years, his government has taken decisive steps to uplift the agrarian community, which comprises more than 80 percent of the state’s population.
The Chief Minister emphasized that enhancing the income of farmers and horticulturists through natural and sustainable farming practices is central to this mission. Himachal has set a precedent by becoming the first state in India to provide Minimum Support Price (MSP) for organic products produced through natural farming. MSP for maize has been increased in two phases, from ₹30 to ₹40 per kilogram, while wheat MSP was raised from ₹40 to ₹60 per kilogram. In a notable move to promote turmeric cultivation, an MSP of ₹90 per kilogram has been introduced for raw turmeric, which will be processed under the state brand ‘Himachal Haldi’.
Further promoting organic produce, the state has launched Him-Bhog Him-Makki maize flour, made from maize cultivated using natural farming methods. Over 4,000 quintals of maize have been procured from 1,590 farming families across 10 districts (excluding Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur), with ₹1.20 crore directly credited to farmers’ accounts. This flour is now available through Public Distribution System (PDS) depots as well as the HIM-ERA portal, ensuring accessibility across both rural and urban areas.
CM Sukhu also highlighted the ongoing efforts to connect 9.61 lakh farmers to natural farming in a phased manner. Notably, over 2.23 lakh farmers and horticulturists across nearly every panchayat have already adopted chemical-free farming practices. The government has introduced the Interest Subvention Scheme to support farmers burdened by loans, particularly those at risk of losing land through auctions.
To ensure sustainable agricultural growth, the government is also focusing on fair pricing, crop insurance, access to quality seeds, enhanced irrigation, skill development, and agricultural research. These initiatives reflect a commitment not only to environmental stewardship but also to empowering the rural economy and modernizing traditional agriculture.
By bridging the gap between sustainable farming and market needs, Himachal Pradesh is emerging as a model state in agricultural transformation and rural empowerment, the Chief Minister concluded.
