Shimla, June 16
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the unprecedented clearing of all liabilities under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for apple growers in Himachal Pradesh. In a significant move, Rs. 153 crore has been released to clear the outstanding dues, including Rs. 90 crore left unpaid by the previous administration.
During his visit to Narkanda in Theog Assembly Constituency, CM Sukhu emphasized his government’s commitment to supporting apple growers.
He highlighted the reinstatement of subsidies on essential agricultural products like pesticides and fertilizers, which the previous government had discontinued. Additionally, the government has increased the support price for culled apples by Rs. 1.50 per kg, raising it to Rs. 12 per kg, ensuring better financial returns for farmers.
In another historic move, the government has introduced the universal carton system for apples this season, aiming to standardize packaging and improve marketability.
The Chief Minister also noted last year’s implementation of mandatory sale and purchase of apples on a per kilogram basis as a significant step towards ensuring fair trade practices.
Exploring tourism potential, CM Sukhu announced plans for a ropeway from Narkanda to Hatu Temple and widening of the Hatu Mandir road.
He emphasized the government’s efforts to promote tourism in Upper Shimla, including the allocation of Rs. 5 crore for an ice skating rink and the construction of a multipurpose sports hall in Narkanda.
Additionally, plans to upgrade the Dhalli to Narkanda road to a four-lane highway with tunnels are underway, with discussions to be held with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
During the visit, CM Sukhu also transferred Rs. 4500 each to 173 women beneficiaries in Narkanda under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi scheme.
This initiative, covering three months of pension including arrears, reflects the government’s commitment to women’s welfare. A total of Rs. 1.15 crore has been disbursed recently to 2,569 women in Shimla district under this scheme.
Reflecting on last year’s monsoon disaster, the Chief Minister praised the state government’s rapid response in providing relief and restoring damaged infrastructure, particularly roads crucial for transporting apples to markets.
Earlier, CM Sukhu offered prayers at Hatu Mata Mandir and planted a sapling at Narkanda Circuit House. He was accompanied by his wife Kamlesh Thakur, MLA Kuldeep Rathore, and other dignitaries including Vice-Chairman of HP Forest Development Corporation Kehar Singh Khachi, Chairman of HP Co-operative Bank Devender Shyam, and Former MLA Rakesh Singha.
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