Punjab Newsline, Shimla, August 9-
The State Govt has unveiled a new initiative, the HIM-UNNATI scheme, aimed at promoting natural farming across the State. With an allocation of Rs 150 crore, this scheme will bolster the efforts of approximately 1.92 lakh farmers already practising chemical-free farming on over 32,149 hectares of land. The program will focus on making the agriculture sector economically viable through a cluster-based development model and promoting natural farming.
Under HIM-UNNATI, the govt will consolidate smallholding farmers to enable bulk production, ensuring a sufficient marketable surplus. The initiative will also integrate various ongoing agricultural schemes and coordinate with departments such as Animal Husbandry, Horticulture, Fisheries, and Rural Development to maximize the scheme's impact.
Sukhu said “The scheme would particularly benefit small and marginal farmers, women farmers, and those from weaker sections of society, including SC, ST and BPL families. The scheme is expected to generate self-employment opportunities for approximately 50,000 farmers through the creation of 2,600 focused agricultural clusters. Additionally, it is anticipated to increase productivity by 15-20 percent in vegetables and cereals in the State.”
The HIM-UNNATI scheme includes 100 percent soil test-based nutrient management to enhance soil productivity, the promotion of high-end product cultivation, and support for traditional crops and millet procurement.