Farmers in Himachal Pradesh take to cultivating off-season veggies

The Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh, known for its magnificent beauty, has now become a popular place for growing off-season vegetables.

By Rajiv Kimta

Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), Oct 6 : The Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh, known for its magnificent beauty, has now become a popular place for growing off-season vegetables.

Farmers have taken to cultivating off-season vegetables and are reaping lucrative returns.

They have been given many incentives by the State Government to grow these vegetables, resulting in a sharp rise in the income of the farmers as well as the state.

"In the process of cultivation new means for production will come. In this regard whatever is their input whether pesticide or anything regarding plant protection. We will provide all," said Raj Krishna Gaur, Agriculture Minister.

Farmers are very happy with the situation since they are reaping good returns.

"For last five-six years, this is our business. Before that our condition was very deplorable. We did not cultivate any vegetable. Since we started cultivating our situation is improving and we are making a lot more money," said Nirat Ram, a farmer.

With advancements in agricultural technology, farmers are now able to grow "winter vegetables" all year through.

Agriculture provides direct employment to 71 percent of the state's total population and contributes nearly 30 percent of the total state domestic product.

Natural endowments like soil, water and land make this state a perfect place for ecological sustainability and economic upliftment of farming community.

ANI