ENA Sectors 2024-08-14 17:31:41 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>Shimla, Aug 14 (KNN)</strong> Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that Himachal Pradesh will brand and market natural farming products under distinct trademarks to ensure better prices for farmers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">During a review meeting, Sukhu emphasised expanding natural farming and introduced plans for a comprehensive certification, packaging, and marketing system.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">A specialised lab for soil testing and product certification will also be established.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Expressing concern over rising cancer cases linked to chemical farming, Sukhu urged farmers to adopt chemical-free practices.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">He also pledged to address staffing shortages in the agriculture department and enhance rural incomes through integrated farming initiatives.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Sukhu highlighted collaboration with JICA and SHIVA projects for improved irrigation schemes and announced increased milk procurement rates to support the dairy sector.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Additionally, the government will allocate funds for the remodeling and repair of traditional kuhals (irrigation channels) to ensure they meet modern agricultural needs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Cold storage facilities tailored to district-specific crop requirements will also be established, and silos for wheat and maize storage will be constructed under the JICA project to prevent post-harvest losses.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><em><strong>(KNN Bureau)</strong></em></span></p> 38977 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/himachal-pradesh-to-boost-natural-farming-with-new-branding-and-marketing-initiatives 2024-08-14 17:31:41 knnindia.co.in