Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): The Himachal First Mango Cluster Project has officially begun in the Jagar area of Mandi district under the state’s ambitious Himachal Pradesh Subtropical Horticulture, Irrigation and Value Addition (HP SHIVA) Project. The initiative marks a significant step toward promoting horticulture and improving farmers’ incomes in low-altitude regions of the state.
Under the project, authorities will develop the mango cluster across approximately 41 hectares of land. Moreover, officials plan to plant 25,625 high-quality mango saplings during the upcoming monsoon season.
Land Development Work Officially Starts
The Horticulture Department launched the land development work in the presence of Joint Director of Horticulture, Mandi Zone, Dr. Subodh Sharma, who attended the event as the chief guest.
During the occasion, Dr. Sharma praised local farmers for their unity and collective participation. Furthermore, he said that the enthusiasm shown by farmers in the Jagar area can serve as a model for other regions of Himachal Pradesh.
He emphasized that modern horticulture practices and scientific farming methods can transform rural economies. As a result, farmers can significantly increase their income while adopting sustainable agricultural techniques.
High-Density Plantation to Boost Production
Deputy Director of Horticulture Dr. Sanjay Gupta explained that the HP SHIVA Project aims to promote horticulture in low-altitude areas and enhance farmers’ earnings.
According to him, the Himachal First Mango Cluster Project will use high-density plantation technology. This modern approach allows farmers to grow more plants in less space while maintaining high fruit quality.
Moreover, high-density farming improves productivity and helps farmers achieve better returns from their orchards. Therefore, experts believe the project will become a successful model for mango cultivation in the state.
First Mango Cluster in Himachal Pradesh
Officials confirmed that this is the first dedicated mango cluster being established under the HP SHIVA Project in Himachal Pradesh.
Furthermore, the initiative represents a major milestone in the state’s horticulture sector. By introducing advanced cultivation techniques and quality planting material, the project aims to strengthen fruit production across the region.
As a result, the Himachal First Mango Cluster Project is expected to contribute significantly to agricultural diversification and rural development.
Economic Benefits and Employment Opportunities
Apart from increasing fruit production, the project will generate new employment opportunities in the region. Local farmers, laborers, and horticulture workers are likely to benefit from orchard development and related activities.
In addition, experts expect the project to strengthen the local economy through higher agricultural output and value-added horticulture products.
Therefore, the initiative could become a key driver of economic growth in rural areas of Mandi district.
Local Leaders and Farmers Attend Event
Several local representatives and horticulture officials attended the launch event. These included newly elected BDC member Saurabh Guleria, Panchayat Pradhan Phoola Devi, Up-Pradhan Jagdish Verma, ward members Radha Raman, Ganga Ram, Chanchla Devi, and Reena.
Moreover, Horticulture Development Officer Dr. Shiksha Soni, members of the HP SHIVA Project block team, and local orchard growers also participated in the program.
Key Points of the news:
- Himachal’s first mango cluster project has started in Jagar, Mandi.
- The project will cover approximately 41 hectares of land.
- Authorities will plant 25,625 high-quality mango saplings during the monsoon season.
- High-density plantation technology will improve productivity and fruit quality.
- The project aims to increase farmer income and create new employment opportunities.
