To strengthen the horticulture sector and enhance farmers’ incomes, the Himachal Pradesh government will launch the High Value Nut Mission from 2026 to 2031. The mission aims to promote the cultivation of high-value temperate nut crops, including walnut, almond, apricot and chilgoza (pine nut), while addressing challenges such as ageing orchards, low productivity, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure and limited value addition.
Around 1,000 hectares will be covered under orchard rejuvenation and high-density plantations. Nearly 900 hectares of old orchards will be rejuvenated through scientific interventions, while 100 hectares will be developed as model high-density plantations using quality planting material, micro-irrigation and climate-resilient technologies.
To ensure the availability of certified planting material, the government will establish four Hi-Tech Nurseries and two Centres of Excellence in major nut-growing areas. These centres will also provide research, training and extension support to growers.
The mission also proposes setting up 10 modern facilities for collection, grading, packaging, processing and value addition to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access. It will further promote Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), encourage private investment through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models and facilitate institutional finance under the Agri Infrastructure Fund.
Special emphasis will be placed on the conservation and regeneration of chilgoza in tribal areas through assisted natural regeneration, community-based forest management and propagation facilities, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities while conserving biodiversity.
CM Sukhu said the mission would usher in a new era of modernization and diversification in Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture sector by improving productivity, enhancing farmers’ incomes and generating rural employment. He said the focus on orchard rejuvenation, value addition, branding, exports and support for women, tribal communities and FPOs would ensure inclusive and sustainable growth for thousands of horticulture families across the state.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
