New Zealand Delegation Meets Chief Minister to Discuss Apple Horticulture and Natural Farming.

Shimla:

A delegation led by New Zealand High Commissioner Patrick Rata met Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in Shimla today and held detailed discussions on strengthening cooperation in horticulture, apple production and natural farming.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister said that apple production plays a significant role in the state’s economy and provides livelihoods to a large number of farming and orchardist families. He said the state government was promoting modern technology, innovation and scientific practices to strengthen the horticulture sector and improve productivity.

Sukhu stressed the importance of facilitating exposure visits for farmers and orchardists from Himachal Pradesh to New Zealand and for New Zealand experts and growers to visit the state. He said such exchanges could help farmers gain practical knowledge about modern techniques, technology and best practices in apple cultivation.

The Chief Minister also discussed various aspects of natural farming with the delegation, including opportunities for adopting sustainable agricultural practices suited to the state’s climatic and geographical conditions.

Members of the New Zealand delegation expressed their interest in providing technical expertise and support for the development of apple horticulture in Himachal Pradesh. They also made a detailed presentation on the proposed Apple Horticulture Centre of Excellence to be established in the state.

Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surinder Chauhan, Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, New Zealand Special Agricultural Trade Envoy Nathan Guy, Counsellor (Primary Industries) James Wa, Agriculture Partnership Manager Priyam Arora, and industry representatives Danielle and Lachlan from New Zealand Apples and Pears were also present at the meeting.