Dehradun: Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a review meeting with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, commending the state’s progress in agriculture, rural development, and organic farming.

Shri Chouhan announced the formation of 2,000 agricultural scientist teams to assist farmers nationwide by promoting modern farming techniques and region-specific practices. He praised Uttarakhand’s increased productivity despite a decline in agricultural land and urged the state to prepare long-term proposals for further central support.

He assured assistance for a ₹1,053 crore fencing project to protect crops from wild animals and confirmed the release of the next installment under the ₹400 crore Agriculture Mechanisation Incentive Scheme upon proper fund utilization. The Minister also supported strengthening seed infrastructure and encouraged a detailed proposal for a ₹1,150 crore apple horticulture programme.

The Chief Minister requested inclusion of Jhangora (barnyard millet) under the MSP regime. Shri Chouhan responded positively and also extended support for kiwi and dragon fruit missions, and the Himalayan Academy for agri-based rural enterprises.

CM Dhami proposed branding “House of Himalayas Limited” globally and requested a GI tag, formation of a Himalayan Rural Bank, and premium supply chains for women SHGs. Shri Chouhan assured central backing for these initiatives.

He also promised to consider increasing MGNREGA wages and the PMAY–Gramin grant from ₹1.30 lakh to ₹2 lakh due to Himalayan region challenges. Approval of over 100 road projects under PMGSY Phase IV was also assured.

Senior state and central officials, including university vice chancellors, attended the meeting.

Himalayan Live Bureau

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