Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, June 12
Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi announced on Thursday that the state government will form two specialised committees under the Horticulture and Agriculture Departments to address longstanding issues faced by apple growers. The move aims to develop structured policies and provide strategic guidance ahead of the upcoming harvest season. The decision came after a high-level meeting at the Shimla Secretariat, chaired by Minister Negi, and attended by apple growers and officials from several departments. The session focused on critical challenges related to transportation, marketing, use of universal cartons, road conditions, and logistics.
“The apple season is just around the corner, and we want to make sure that growers face no difficulties,” Minister Negi said. “Directions have been issued to all relevant departments, and the concerns of growers have been taken into serious consideration,” he said.
Participants also raised concerns over improving production techniques and fruit quality. A pressing issue highlighted during the meeting was the pending payment of crores of rupees still owed to growers by traders. The minister assured that the government is examining the matter. Growers proposed setting up smaller, decentralised Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage units instead of relying solely on large facilities. Minister Negi said the government is open to exploring the idea to reduce post-harvest losses and improve storage efficiency.
Officials say the newly constituted committees will be tasked with preparing comprehensive reports and recommendations to ensure smooth operations throughout the harvest season.
