The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has recently approved a loan of 130 million USD for the implementation of the Himachal Pradesh Subtropical Horticulture, Irrigation, and Value Addition Project. The project is aimed at increasing the resilience of the local farm households to the impacts of climate change through improved irrigation and water management techniques.
Project Purpose
The purpose of this project is to assist at least 15,000 farm households in Himachal Pradesh in becoming more resilient to the impacts of climate change through improved irrigation and water management techniques. The project aims to increase the farmers’ income by introducing modern agricultural techniques and establishing a Farmer Producer Company.
Agriculture in Himachal Pradesh
Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for nearly 90 percent of the population in Himachal Pradesh. With the changing climate and its impacts, it becomes increasingly important to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the agricultural sector in the region. The Himachal Pradesh Subtropical Horticulture, Irrigation, and Value Addition Project is a step in this direction.
Introduction of Modern Agricultural Techniques
The project will introduce modern agricultural techniques and methodologies to the farmers in Himachal Pradesh. This will help in increasing the productivity and profitability of the farm households. The modern techniques will also be better equipped to cope with the impacts of climate change, making the farmers more resilient.
Establishment of a Farmer Producer Company
One of the key components of the project is the establishment of a Farmer Producer Company. This company will help in increasing the market access and agribusiness development for the farmers. By forming a collective, the farmers will be better equipped to negotiate prices, access credit, and negotiate with buyers.
Enhancement of Farmers’ Income
The loan from the Asian Development Bank is expected to significantly enhance the farmers’ income in Himachal Pradesh. By introducing modern agricultural techniques and establishing a Farmer Producer Company, the project will help in increasing the profitability and sustainability of the agricultural sector in the region.
