Natural Farming is Himachal’s Future, Universities Key to Transition: CM Sukhu

Shimla: Emphasising a shift towards sustainable agriculture, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said natural farming is the future of Himachal Pradesh, underlining the crucial role of academic institutions in driving this transformation.

Addressing an event at Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth ₹34.31 crore. He stressed that the university must actively guide and support farmers in adopting natural farming techniques.

Sukhu noted that over two lakh farmers in the state have registered under natural farming initiatives, with nearly 1.98 lakh already receiving certification. He described this as a strong indicator of growing acceptance of eco-friendly agricultural practices among farmers.

Highlighting infrastructure development, the Chief Minister inaugurated a 107-bed hostel at the College of Horticulture and Forestry in Neri, Hamirpur, built at a cost of ₹3.63 crore. He also inaugurated the administrative building of a Krishi Vigyan Kendra at Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti, constructed for ₹1.48 crore.

Further, foundation stones were laid for multiple working women’s hostels to support students and professionals. These include two 50-capacity hostels at Neri and Khaggal in Hamirpur district, costing ₹8.57 crore and ₹8.68 crore respectively, and a 100-capacity hostel at the university’s main campus in Nauni, Solan, estimated at ₹11.95 crore.

Reinforcing the importance of agriculture, Sukhu said nearly 90% of the state’s population lives in rural areas, with around 53.95% directly dependent on farming for their livelihoods. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the rural economy through progressive, farmer-centric policies and expanding the adoption of natural farming practices.