Horticulture of Himachal Pradesh

Horticulture-2/”>Horticulture of Himachal Pradesh

Horticulture is the science and art of growing – fruits, vegetables, flowers, and any other cultivar. It also includes plant conservation, landscape restoration, Soil management, landscape and garden design, construction, maintenance, and arboriculture.

India is likely to record highest ever production of horticulture produce, including fruits and vegetables, in 2016-17. The total production is estimated at 295 million tonnes which is 3.2 % higher than the production in 2015-16. The estimate shows that the current year will be the fifth straight year when horticulture production in the country will outstrip the production of food-grains.

According to the union ministry’s estimates, based on information provided by the states and Union Territories, the fruits production during the current year is estimated to be 93 million tonnes which is 2.9% higher than the previous year whereas production of vegetables is estimated to be around 175 million tonnes which is 3.5% higher than the production in 2015-16.

Another positive for horticulture is that fruits and vegetables are mostly grown by marginal and small farmers (with less than 2 hectare of land). This means that resource-poor farmers are likely to have benefitted most from the Growth in horticulture sector. More so, because the value of the horticulture output grew more than double compared with all other crops put together in the four years between 2008-09 and 2012-13. Fruits and vegetables are grown in less than 5% of the country’s gross cropped area, compared to over 63% of the area used to grow foodgrains.

Status of Horticulture of Himachal Pradesh

The rich diversity of agro- climatic conditions, topographical variations and altitudinal differences coupled with fertile, deep and well drained soils favour the cultivation of temperate to sub-tropical fruits in Himachal. The region is also suitable for cultivation of ancillary horticultural produce like flowers, mushroom, honey and hops.

This suitability of Himachal has resulted in shifting of land use pattern from agriculture to fruit crops in the past few decades. The area under fruits, which was 792 hectares in 1950-51 with total production of 1,200 tonnes increased to 2,26,799 hectares during 2015-16. The total fruit production in 2015-16 was 9.29 lakh tonnes, which during 2016-17 (upto December,2016) has been reported as 5.10 lakh tones. During 2016-17, it was envisaged to bring 3,000 hectares of additional area under fruit Plants against which 2,816.72 hectares of area was brought under plantations and 7.53 lakh fruit plants of different species.

Nuts and dry fruits exhibit area increase from 231 hectares in 1960-61 to 10,491 hectares in 2015- 16, Citrus and other sub tropical fruits have increased from 1,225 hectares and 623 hectares in 1960-61 to 24,063 hectares and 53,658 hectares in 2015-16, respectively.

Apple is the most important fruit crop of Himachal Pradesh, which constitutes about 49 percent of the total area under fruit crops and about 84 percent of the total fruit production. Area under apple has increased from 400 hectares in 1950-51 to 3,025 hectares in 1960-61 and 1,10,679 hectares in 2015-16. The advent of WTO, GATT and liberalisation of economy is further imposing many challenges on the dominance of apple in fruit Industry of Himachal Pradesh. The fluctuations in the production of apple during last few years have attracted the attention of the Government.

Govt. policies and initiatives

Horticulture Development scheme is the major programme aiming at the creation and maintenance of infrastructural facilities in the rural areas for ensuring equitable access to the Resources and inputs required for the promotion of all fruit crops. Under this scheme, the programmes like development of fruit production, area expansion programme, demonstration of new technologies and improved package of practices on the orchards of fruit growers, development of Walnut, Hazelnut , Pistachio nut, mango, litchi, strawberry and olive are being implemented.

During the year 2016-17 the procurement price of Apple, Mango and Citrus fruits has been remained the same under Market Intervention scheme.

To promote flower cultivation two Tissue Culture Laboratories have been established under Model Flower Cultivation Centres at Mahogbagh (Chail, District Solan) and Palampur District Kangra. Four Farmers Cooperative Societies are functioning for the production and Marketing of flowers in district Shimla, Kangra, Lahaul & Spiti and Chamba.

The weather based Crop Insurance Scheme was initially launched in Himachal Pradesh in 6 Blocks for apple crop and in 4 Blocks for Mango crop during Rabi 2009-10. In view of the popularity of this scheme, the coverage under this scheme has been extended during the consecutive years. Presently during year 2016-17, the scheme is being implemented in 36 Blocks for Apple, 41 Blocks for Mango, 15 Blocks for Kinnow.

For integrated development of Horticulture, Centrally Sponsored Schemes, Mission for integrated development of horticulture, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna and Pardhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna are being implemented in the State. To promote protected cultivation in horticulture, the State Government has enhanced subsidy under Poly Houses from 50 percent to 85 percent.

To promote micro-Irrigation facilities,659 hectare area has been brought under Pardhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna upto December,2016. In addition to this, for strengthening Irrigation facilities in the orchards, water Storage Tanks and Borewells are being established in the State.

Himachal Pradesh Marketing Corporation (HPMC) a State public undertaking was established in the Pradesh with the objective of marketing fresh fruits and vegetables, processing the unmarketable surplus and marketing the processed products. HPMC is looking forward to upgrade the existing Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE of pack house, cold store, CA store and Fruit Processing Plant etc.

Himachal Pradesh is a state in India that is known for its beautiful scenery and its diverse range of fruits and vegetables. The state is home to a number of different horticultural crops, including apples, almonds, apricots, cherries, citrus fruits, grapes, kiwis, mangoes, peaches, pears, plums, strawberries, and walnuts. In addition to these fruits and vegetables, Himachal Pradesh also produces a variety of Medicinal And Aromatic Plants, flowers, mushrooms, honey, silk, ornamental fish, and integrated Farming Systems.

The state’s Climate is ideal for the cultivation of a wide range of horticultural crops. The temperate climate, with cool summers and cold winters, provides the perfect conditions for the growth of apples, almonds, and other fruit trees. The state also receives a significant amount of rainfall, which is essential for the growth of crops such as rice, wheat, and maize.

Himachal Pradesh has a long history of horticulture. The state’s first recorded mention of horticulture dates back to the 7th century, when the Chinese traveler Xuanzang visited the region. Xuanzang noted that the people of Himachal Pradesh were skilled in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables.

The state’s horticulture industry has grown significantly in recent years. In 2016, the horticulture sector contributed an estimated â¹12,000 crore to the state’s economy. The sector employs over 1 million people, making it one of the largest employers in the state.

The state government has been actively promoting the horticulture sector. The government has implemented a number of schemes and programs to support the sector, including the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project, the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Mission, and the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Promotion Council. These schemes have helped to improve the productivity and quality of horticultural crops in the state.

The horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh faces a number of challenges, including Climate Change, pests and diseases, and lack of access to markets. However, the state government is committed to addressing these challenges and promoting the growth of the horticulture sector.

The following are some of the key challenges faced by the horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh:

Climate change: Climate change is having a significant impact on the horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh. The state is experiencing more frequent and severe droughts, which are affecting the growth of crops. In addition, the state is also experiencing more frequent and severe floods, which are damaging crops and infrastructure.
Pests and diseases: Pests and diseases are another major challenge facing the horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh. A number of pests and diseases have been reported in the state, including apple scab, pear psylla, and plum pox. These pests and diseases can cause significant damage to crops, and can lead to significant losses for farmers.
Lack of access to markets: The horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh faces a number of challenges in terms of access to markets. The state is located in a remote area, and this makes it difficult for farmers to transport their produce to markets. In addition, the state’s infrastructure is not well-developed, which makes it difficult for farmers to access markets.

Despite these challenges, the horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh has the potential to grow significantly in the future. The state has a number of advantages, including a favorable climate, a skilled workforce, and a supportive government. With the right support, the horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh can become a major contributor to the state’s economy.

What is horticulture?

Horticulture is the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It includes the production, processing, and marketing of horticultural products.

What are the different types of horticulture?

There are many different types of horticulture, including:

Fruit and vegetable production: This involves growing fruits and vegetables for human consumption.
Ornamental horticulture: This involves growing flowers, plants, and trees for aesthetic purposes.
Landscape horticulture: This involves designing and maintaining landscapes, such as parks, gardens, and golf courses.
Floriculture: This involves growing and marketing cut flowers.
Nursery production: This involves growing and selling plants, such as trees, shrubs, and perennials.
Greenhouse management: This involves managing greenhouses, which are used to grow plants in controlled environments.

What are the benefits of horticulture?

Horticulture has many benefits, including:

It provides food for humans and animals.
It helps to improve air quality.
It can be used to create beautiful landscapes.
It can be a Source Of Income for farmers and businesses.
It can be a therapeutic activity for people of all ages.

What are the challenges of horticulture?

Horticulture also has some challenges, including:

It can be a labor-intensive industry.
It is susceptible to pests and diseases.
It can be affected by weather conditions.
It can be expensive to start a horticultural business.
There is a shortage of skilled workers in the horticulture industry.

What is the future of horticulture?

The future of horticulture looks bright. The global demand for horticultural products is expected to grow in the coming years. This is due to factors such as Population growth, Urbanization, and increasing incomes. The horticulture industry is also becoming more efficient and innovative. This is leading to new products and technologies that are making it easier to grow and market horticultural products.

What are some of the latest trends in horticulture?

Some of the latest trends in horticulture include:

The use of vertical farming: Vertical farming is a method of growing crops in vertically stacked layers. This method uses less land and water than traditional farming methods.
The use of hydroponics: Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Plants are grown in a nutrient-rich solution. This method can be used to grow crops in areas with poor soil quality.
The use of LED lighting: LED lighting is a type of lighting that is more efficient and uses less energy than traditional lighting. LED lighting is being used in greenhouses to grow crops.
The use of robots: Robots are being used in the horticulture industry to perform tasks such as harvesting, weeding, and packing.

What are some of the challenges facing the horticulture industry?

Some of the challenges facing the horticulture industry include:

The cost of labor: The cost of labor is a major challenge for the horticulture industry. The cost of labor has been increasing in recent years, which has made it more difficult for farmers to compete.
The cost of land: The cost of land is another major challenge for the horticulture industry. The cost of land has been increasing in recent years, which has made it more difficult for farmers to find affordable land to grow their crops.
The weather: The weather is a major challenge for the horticulture industry. Crops can be damaged by extreme weather events, such as droughts, floods, and hailstorms.
Pests and diseases: Pests and diseases are a major challenge for the horticulture industry. Crops can be damaged by pests and diseases, which can lead to crop losses.
Competition from imports: The horticulture industry faces competition from imports. Countries such as China and Mexico produce fruits and vegetables at a lower cost than the United States. This makes it difficult for US farmers to compete.

What are some of the solutions to the challenges facing the horticulture industry?

Some of the solutions to the challenges facing the horticulture industry include:

Investing in research and development: Research and development can help to develop new technologies and methods that can help farmers to reduce costs and increase yields.
Investing in Education and training: Education and training can help farmers to learn new skills and adopt new technologies.
Investing in infrastructure: Infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and irrigation systems, can help to reduce the cost of production and improve the Quality Of Life for farmers.
Providing financial assistance: Financial assistance can help farmers to purchase land, equipment, and other inputs.
Promoting trade: Trade agreements can help to reduce tariffs and other barriers to trade, which can help farmers to export their products.

Which of the following is not a fruit grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Apple
(B) Mango
(C) Grapes
(D) Orange
Which of the following is not a vegetable grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Potato
(B) Tomato
(C) Cabbage
(D) Onion
Which of the following is not a flower grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Rose
(B) Lily
(C) Jasmine
(D) Lotus
Which of the following is not a spice grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Ginger
(B) Turmeric
(C) Chili
(D) Pepper
Which of the following is not a medicinal plant grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Aloe vera
(B) Turmeric
(C) Ginger
(D) Ashwagandha
Which of the following is not a forest product grown in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Timber
(B) Bamboo
(C) Honey
(D) Tea
Which of the following is not a mineral found in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Iron Ore
(B) Copper
(C) Zinc
(D) Gold
Which of the following is not a tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Shimla
(B) Manali
(C) Dalhousie
(D) Agra
Which of the following is not a festival celebrated in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Kullu Dussehra
(B) Baisakhi
(C) Janmashtami
(D) Diwali
Which of the following is not a language spoken in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Hindi
(B) Punjabi
(C) English
(D) Chinese