In a significant push to promote natural farming and uplift the rural economy, the Himachal Pradesh government has successfully procured 2,123.587 quintals of naturally grown wheat from 838 farmers across the state. The produce, purchased through 22 designated procurement centers, is being processed into flour and porridge under the state’s own ‘Him-Bhog’ brand. Farmers have received payments totaling ₹1.27 crore along with ₹4.15 lakh in transport subsidies.
Building on this momentum, the government will begin the procurement of naturally grown barley in the remote Pangi region of Chamba district from October 8. This is the first such initiative in Pangi, fulfilling a commitment made by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. A minimum support price (MSP) of ₹60 per kilogram has been set for barley, and five procurement centers have been established at Hudan, Sechu, Sural, Killar, and Sach. So far, 80 farmers have registered to participate.
According to a government spokesperson, promoting chemical-free, naturally grown produce is a key priority. MSPs have also been announced for other crops: ₹60/kg for wheat, ₹40/kg for maize, and ₹90/kg for raw turmeric.
To further boost rural livelihoods, the state has launched two new schemes in the Arki Assembly constituency of Solan district:
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Milk Incentive Scheme: Farmers affiliated with registered milk cooperative societies will receive ₹3 per litre as incentive.
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Transport Subsidy Scheme: Private milk societies will be provided ₹3 per litre to assist with collection and transportation.
Chief Minister Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening the rural economy through direct support and sustainable agricultural practices.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
