Himachal Deputy CM Ensures Safe Potato Sales and Infrastructure Boost

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced measures for safe potato crop sales in Una and significant infrastructure development in the Haroli Assembly Constituency, benefiting farmers and locals.

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri assured farmers on Wednesday of a new system to guarantee the safe and secure sale of potato crops in Una district. He emphasized that this measure aims to protect farmers' interests and shield them from fraud.

Speaking at a public grievance hearing in Pandoga Village, Agnihotri highlighted the state government's efforts to boost farmers' income through the HIM-UNNATI scheme. With a budget of Rs 150 crore, the initiative seeks to promote natural farming and plans to form 2,600 agricultural groups involving 50,000 farmers. Naturally grown wheat and maize will be purchased at a minimum support price of Rs 40 and Rs 30 per kilogram, the highest in the nation. This move is also expected to create employment opportunities for the youth.

Agnihotri further detailed an extensive infrastructure development plan for the Haroli Assembly Constituency. Funds amounting to Rs 70 crore will be allocated for road upgrades and bridge constructions. Specific projects include Rs 11.10 crore for the 9-kilometer Pandoga Barrier to Panjawar road, Rs 12.25 crore for the Bhadshali to Badhera road, and Rs 9.46 crore for the Panjawar-Bathri to Saloh-Badhera road stretch. Additional road improvements and two new bridges, costing Rs 4.87 crore and Rs 5.75 crore respectively, were also mentioned. Further, Rs 3 crore will be invested in constructing culverts and a police post in Pandoga, along with Rs 2.37 crore for flood control measures, benefiting around 100 families.

(With inputs from agencies.)