On Environment Day, Haryana govt unveils Rs 2,738 cr horticulture push

Chandigarh: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday launched the ambitious Rs 2,738-crore Sustainable Horticulture Promotion Project, and laid the foundation stone of the Haryana Agri-Business and Cold Chain Centre, declaring that the state is ready to lead a horticulture and agri-business revolution, much like it once spearheaded the Green Revolution.Addressing a World Environment Day programme in Panchkula, the chief minister said the project would transform Haryana into a major hub for horticulture, food processing, cold chain infrastructure and agricultural exports. He emphasised that farmers, youth, women and technology would be key drivers in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047. Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the project aims to strengthen the farm-to-market value chain and significantly reduce post-harvest losses. It includes the development of 400 horticulture clusters, 500 producer groups, 402 pack houses, four lead pack houses, three fulfilment centres and 44 retail outlets across the state. Additionally, 1,000 rainwater harvesting structures will be created and micro-irrigation expanded over 65,000 acres.In another important development, the CM said Pipli and Bhiwani Zoos will be upgraded with investments of Rs 70 crore and Rs 25 crore, respectively. A new bird sanctuary will be developed in the Saraswati Conservation Forest at a cost of Rs 55 crore, while facilities worth Rs 10 crore will be created in Kalesar National Park to promote eco-tourism. Saini said cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, geospatial systems, digital advisory services and e-marketing platforms would be integrated into the project. Farmers will also benefit from international expertise through collaboration between Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal, and Kochi University, Japan. In a major relief to sunflower growers, the chief minister announced the reopening of the sunflower procurement registration portal for 60 days. The decision will allow eligible farmers who missed the earlier deadline to register and sell their produce. "No eligible farmer should be deprived of the opportunity to sell his crop," Saini said while directing officials to reopen the portal immediately.MSID:: 131529564 413 |