In a significant push towards promoting natural farming, the Agriculture Department of Himachal Pradesh has procured 140 quintals of naturally grown barley from farmers in the Pangi Sub Division of Chamba district. This initiative is being implemented under the directive of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, as part of the government’s commitment to support chemical-free agriculture.
According to a State Government spokesperson, barley has been purchased at a support price of ₹60 per kilogram, benefitting 59 farmers across various gram panchayats. Specifically, 20 quintals were procured from Hudaan, 78 quintals from Suraal, 9 quintals from Killar, 10 quintals from Saach, and 23 quintals from Sechu gram panchayats.
The spokesperson emphasized that the initiative is encouraging farmers to adopt natural farming methods, which in turn contributes to the economic empowerment of rural communities. With nearly 90% of the state’s population residing in rural areas, the government is framing policies that enhance rural livelihoods and promote sustainable agriculture.
During the Himachal Day celebrations held in Pangi, the Chief Minister declared Pangi as the first Natural Farming Sub Division of the state — a recognition that has already begun to inspire more farmers to grow chemical-free crops.
Looking ahead, the State Government has set a target to procure 2371.71 quintals of maize from 1473 farmers this kharif season. To facilitate this, 28 collection centres will be set up across the state. Additionally, the Agriculture Department is preparing to procure 2422.65 quintals of naturally grown raw turmeric from 1629 farmers, through 12 designated collection centres.
The government has fixed support prices of ₹60 per kilogram for wheat and barley, ₹40 for maize, and ₹90 for raw turmeric grown using natural methods. These prices aim to provide remunerative returns to farmers, boosting income and promoting sustainable practices.
The spokesperson concluded by saying that the government’s consistent efforts are showing positive results, not only in ensuring livelihood security but also in improving the living standards of rural populations through the adoption of natural farming.
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