Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday maintained that the state now offers the highest support prices in the country for wheat, maize, and turmeric — underscoring his government’s commitment to boosting the rural economy and improving livelihoods across the hill state.

Sukhu, addressing a public gathering in Shimla, said that the State Government has fixed the support price for wheat at Rs 60 per kg, maize at Rs 40 per kg, and will soon begin procurement of turmeric at Rs 90 per kg. “We are making focused efforts to strengthen the rural economy, and Milkfed will have a pivotal role in this endeavour,” said Sukhu, adding that 90 percent of the state’s population lives in rural areas.

Highlighting the Government’s efforts to empower farmers and dairy producers, he said that milk procurement prices have been raised by Rs 21 per litre over the last two years, a substantial increase aimed at supporting small dairy farmers.

In a significant step towards social equity, the Chief Minister also spoke about new welfare initiatives for widows and single women. Under the ‘Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana’, children of widows will be provided free higher education up to the age of 27. Additionally, financial assistance of Rs three lakh is being given for house construction to widows and single women.

“These measures reflect our government’s deep commitment to inclusive development, particularly in rural and vulnerable sections of society,” Sukhu said.

The Chief Minister also acknowledged the appointment of Buddhi Singh Thakur as the new chairman of Milkfed, calling it a recognition of his long-standing association with the party and his grassroots leadership in Kullu district. A delegation from Kullu district called on the Chief Minister at Oak Over to express their gratitude for appointing Buddhi Singh Thakur as the Milkfed head.

Referring to Buddhi Singh Thakur, Sukhu said: “He and I began our political journey together in NSUI. He has seen many ups and downs in life and so I am pleased with his appointment. Kullu district will continue to get due representation and I will soon visit the Anni Assembly Constituency and spend a night there.”