The State Government was committed to safeguard the interests of the farmers and horticulturists by providing ample facilities of marketing, cold storage and CA Stores so as to give a boost to their economy, Himachal Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said while addressing a deputation of BJP workers of Jubbal-Nawar-Kotkhai area, led by Chetan Bragta.
He said that the state government was reimbursing 6 percent subsidy on purchase of packaging material like cartons and trays, whether purchased through HPMC or open market with effect from 1st April, 2022, adding that horticulturists would have to produce GST paid bill of cartons and trays, sale proof and Aadhar linked bank account details, to get the subsidy. This would provide a big relief to the horticulturalists of the State, added the Chief Minister.
Thakur said the State Government has released all the pending payments of the apple growers and has not only provided much needed relief in GST to the horticulturists, but has also enhanced the procurement price of apple under the Market Intervention Scheme by Rs 3.50 per kg. He said that the farmers should not only go for crop diversification, but also ensure the value addition of their crops to strengthen their economy.