Avocado farming brings fresh hope for Himachal farmers

Shimla: Horticulture Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi, released a book titled Opportunity and Challenges of Avocado Farming in Himachal Pradesh, penned by Deepak Singha. The book presents his detailed research on avocados and provides insights on how to increase the cultivation of this fruit. The minister praised the author’s hard work and said that avocado farming is expected to boost farmers’ income and strengthen the state’s economy.

He further mentioned that the government is planning to include avocado cultivation in major schemes like the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission and the HP Shiva Project to encourage farmers to adopt its cultivation on a large scale. Avocados are packed with high nutritional value, boost immunity, and are beneficial for heart disease, cholesterol, and diabetes.

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Deepak Singha explained that avocados can be successfully grown in the subtropical regions of Himachal, such as Hamirpur, Kangra, Una, and the lower parts of Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur. He highlighted the high market demand for the ‘Mexican Hass’ variety, which can sell for up to Rs 500 per kg. According to him, demand for the fruit has risen since the COVID-19 pandemic due to its health benefits.

Avocado farming is gaining popularity in Himachal Pradesh. Its demand is increasing due to its medicinal value. The new initiative by the government to promote avocado farming presents an opportunity for the state’s farmers to cultivate this fruit and increase their profits.