Himachal Pradesh Launches Rs 150 Crore HIM-UNNATI Scheme to Boost Natural Farming

The Himachal Pradesh Government introduces the HIM-UNNATI scheme, backed by Rs 150 crore, to support natural farming and economically empower 1.92 lakh farmers. The initiative aims to enhance productivity, promote chemical-free agriculture, and integrate various state departmental efforts, benefiting small and marginal farmers and creating employment opportunities.

The Himachal Pradesh State Government has launched the HIM-UNNATI scheme, a Rs 150 crore initiative designed to promote natural farming statewide. This initiative will support 1.92 lakh farmers currently practicing chemical-free farming on over 32,149 hectares. The scheme aims to make agriculture economically viable through cluster-based development and bulk production.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that the scheme would primarily benefit small and marginal farmers, including women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. It is expected to generate self-employment for approximately 50,000 farmers by creating 2,600 agricultural clusters, increasing vegetable and cereal productivity by 15-20 percent.

The HIM-UNNATI scheme includes comprehensive soil test-based nutrient management, promotion of high-end crops, and traditional millet cultivation. The government has allocated Rs 50 crore to set up 10 new Farmer Producer Organizations and Rs 10 crore for wire mesh support. The initiative also includes the procurement of up to 20 quintals of naturally grown grains per family to encourage chemical-free farming and entrepreneurship.

(With inputs from agencies.)