Himachal Government Releases Rs. 45 Crore to Clear Apple Growers’ MIS Dues, Launches Digital Procurement Portal.
Shimla:
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced the release of Rs. 45 crore to clear pending payments to apple growers for produce procured under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) during the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 seasons. The announcement was made while chairing a meeting of the Horticulture Department in Shimla.
The Chief Minister said the state government has already cleared payments through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for growers who supplied up to 30 bags of apples under the MIS. He added that the process of releasing payments to orchardists who supplied 100 bags or more is currently underway.
He said the release of Rs. 45 crore will help clear long-pending liabilities and provide financial relief to apple growers across the state.
Digital Procurement System Introduced
Reviewing preparations for the ongoing apple procurement season, the Chief Minister launched the Horticulture Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) website and mobile application, marking a major step towards digitising the entire procurement process.
The new digital platform will enable end-to-end monitoring of apple procurement—from purchase at collection centres to processing—ensuring greater transparency, efficiency and accountability.
Under the new system, apple growers will be required to register on the portal by submitting their Aadhaar number, land records and bank account details. The portal will also allow growers to book time slots for selling their produce, reducing waiting time and improving convenience during the procurement season.
In addition, growers will receive SMS notifications regarding procurement schedules and payment status, enabling them to track every stage of the process and ensuring complete transparency.
Directions to Ensure Smooth Procurement
The Chief Minister directed the Horticulture Department to deploy dedicated staff at all procurement centres to assist orchardists during the apple season.
He also instructed officials that employees from other departments could be deputed if required to ensure smooth operations and prevent inconvenience to farmers during procurement.
The Chief Minister asked the department to complete all necessary preparations well before the procurement season reaches its peak.
Government Committed to Farmers’ Welfare
Sukhu said the state government remains committed to protecting the interests of farmers and horticulturists and has introduced several initiatives for their welfare.
He highlighted the introduction of the universal carton system for apple packaging, stating that the move aims to protect growers from exploitation by middlemen while ensuring a uniform packaging system for apple produce.
The meeting was attended by HIMFED Chairman Maheshwar Singh Chauhan, Horticulture Secretary C. Paulrasu, Director of Digital Technology and Governance Dr. Nipun Jindal, HPMC Managing Director D.C. Rana, Horticulture Director Satish Kumar and other senior officials of the department.
