A delegation of research scholars from Hiroshima University, Japan, visited the State Project Implementing Unit of the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana (RGPK3Y) in Shimla to learn about Himachal Pradesh’s agriculture practices and its growing natural farming movement.
The team, led by Professor (Dr.) Osamu Yoshida from the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, comprised law students studying farmers’ welfare in India. They were accompanied by Professor B.S. Chauhan, Visiting Professor at HPU and IGMC.
During the interaction, State Nodal Officer (RGPK3Y) and Additional Director of Agriculture, Dr. Suresh Kumar Sharma, briefed the scholars on Himachal Pradesh’s agricultural landscape and detailed the objectives of RGPK3Y. He highlighted that the scheme promotes non-chemical, low-cost, climate-resilient, and eco-friendly natural farming, aiming to strengthen sustainable agriculture and ensure chemical-free food for consumers. He added that the initiative also seeks to enhance farmers’ income while maintaining ecological balance.
Dr. Sharma informed the delegation that approximately 2.23 lakh farmers across the state have adopted natural farming practices, cultivating multiple crops on 38,456 hectares. Taking the initiative further, the state government is procuring naturally grown maize, wheat, raw turmeric, and barley from certified farmers at premium rates. After lab testing, these products are processed, packaged, and marketed under the ‘Him Bhog’ brand, which currently offers maize flour, wheat flour, and porridge (daliya).
The Japanese scholars showed particular interest in the natural farming model and its products, as well as the cold storage facilities available for vegetable crops in the state. They also shared insights into agricultural practices in Japan.
