Dehradun: Climate change has transformed the scenario of Uttarakhand’s agriculture and horticulture sectors. The state is situated in the lap of the Himalayas, known for the production of a variety of fruits. In fact, changing weather conditions have created several challenges for farmers in recent time. Currently, unusual rainfall, surging temperatures, droughts, and many other natural calamities have been ruining crop quality and production. This led to financial losses to the state farmers.
Minister Ganesh, Agriculture Minister, said that climate change, urbanization, and other issues are major hurdles for the growth of the horticulture sector. Loss of gardens has further deteriorated the situation. The state government is trying to make strict laws to protect orchards.
Orchard owners cut down their trees then file false reports, blaming someone else for having cut the trees. Such practices will be stopped to prevent unnecessary tree-cutting. Over the years the yield of fruits in the state has declined; the downfall has occurred owing to irregular rainfall, rises in temperatures, and droughts as well. Diseases have reduced the quality of fruits.
At present, the government has started the “Apple Mission” to help apple-growing farmers at higher altitudes and encourage climate-friendly farming practices. The government has decided to provide an 80% subsidy on drip irrigation systems so that farmers can use water effectively.
The minister believes that modern techniques are necessary for increasing fruit yield in the state. He said that research is a must to lessen the negative impact of climate change, making horticulture in the state a more profitable business.
