Shimla ( Himachal Pradesh [India], April 1 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Minister of Revenue, Horticulture, and Tribal Development Jagat Singh Negi On Tuesday revealed significant advancements for the state’s horticulture industry, detailing accomplishments, new initiatives, and upcoming strategies.
Following the 217th meeting of the Board of Directors, he addressed a press conference. Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing & Processing Corporation ( HPMC ), Negi emphasized the company's financial results, current initiatives, and growth plans.
Minister Negi emphasized HPMC highlighted the company’s financial achievements, mentioning that the corporation has reached an unprecedented profit of Rs 5 crore this fiscal year. Additionally, they attained their peak production level with 2,000 metric tons of apple concentrate produced.
"Today, the Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Committee ( HPMC ) conducted its 217th session. It was my inaugural meeting with the Board of Directors, and I am delighted to report that HPMC has served the state's horticulturists and farmers for many years. It has built a robust reputation across the country due to its programs and initiatives. Marketing "Intervention Scheme (MIS), which includes acquiring apples and other goods," stated Negi.
HPMC has also explored the realms of apple cider vinegar and apple wine production, simultaneously launching ready-to-serve juices available in 250ml, 500ml, and 1000ml bottles, currently available for sale. Delhi and Jaipur metro stations.
Negi emphasized the importance of infrastructure expansion, revealing that HPMC plans to utilize its vast land assets across the country to generate revenue. The corporation is set to monetize properties in key metropolitan cities, including Mumbai , Delhi , Kolkata , and Chennai , through commercial leasing and development projects.
" HPMC owns prime land in several cities, including 15 bighas in Kolkata , which is expected to generate upfront revenue exceeding Rs 100 crore and an annual rental income of over Rs 2 crore. We are finalizing tenders to ensure optimal utilization of these properties," he said.
Additionally, the board has decided to outsource Cold Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities and grading-packing centers through a tender process, ensuring their efficient operation by private entities. HPMC is also set to construct CA storage units using geothermal technology, with a pilot project already initiated in Kinnaur's Tapri region.
HPMC is collaborating with an Iceland-based company to develop geothermal-powered cold storage facilities, utilizing hot spring energy. The initiative includes a fruit and vegetable dryer with a capacity of 500 kg per day, demonstrating promising results.
"This geothermal project has the potential to revolutionize cold storage solutions across India, reducing dependence on electricity while also supporting central heating systems for homes." Negi added.
HPMC has also launched an online service platform, enabling direct sales of horticultural products to consumers. The initiative has received positive responses and high customer ratings.
He said with the Government Support and Future Roadmap, Under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), the Himachal Pradesh government has allocated Rs 30 crore to HPMC For the acquisition of apples from farmers, Minister Negi guaranteed that the government remains dedicated to making prompt payments to farmers and improving support services.
He additionally declared new product releases in South India, specifically in Chennai , to strengthen HPMC 's market presence.
"The outcomes of our board meeting have led to multiple key decisions such as expanding infrastructure, diversifying products, and advancing technology. Our aim is to enhance facilities and services for farmers and horticulturists within the state," he stated.
With these initiatives, HPMC is set to reinforce its market stance while guaranteeing continued advantages for the agricultural community Himachal Pradesh . (ANI)
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