Dharamshala (Kameshwar Sharma): The JICA Mission Praises HPCDP Phase-II after reviewing its progress in Himachal Pradesh. The mission held a concluding meeting at Hotel Dhauladhar Heights in Dharamshala.
Earlier, the delegation visited Kangra and Palampur to assess the implementation of the Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project (HPCDP Phase-II).
Moreover, the mission appreciated the project’s efforts to increase farmers’ income, promote crop diversification, encourage agricultural entrepreneurship, and strengthen value addition activities across the region.
Review Focuses on Farmer Income and Crop Diversification
During the meeting, officials reviewed various initiatives undertaken under HPCDP Phase-II. The project aims to help farmers move beyond traditional farming practices and adopt market-oriented and high-value agricultural activities.
Project Director Dr. Sunil Chauhan stated that HPCDP Phase-II is creating new opportunities for farmers by linking them with profitable agricultural ventures. Furthermore, the project is strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and promoting agri-business development through innovative interventions.
JICA Highlights Matcha Tea Opportunities in Himachal
Meanwhile, JICA India Chief Representative Takeuchi Takuro praised the project’s innovative approach and the active participation of farmers. He emphasized that Himachal Pradesh has immense potential for the production and processing of Matcha tea.
According to him, the state’s favorable climate, rich tea-growing heritage, and support from research institutions provide a strong foundation for expanding the Matcha tea industry.
Growing Global Demand Can Boost Farmers’ Income
Furthermore, Takuro noted that the increasing global demand for Matcha tea could create new income opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs in Himachal Pradesh.
He added that collaboration among tea growers, cooperative societies, research institutions, and private enterprises could help Kangra tea gain stronger recognition in international markets. As a result, the region could emerge as a major hub for premium tea products.
Stakeholders Discuss Future Growth Strategy
In addition, members of the JICA Mission, project officials, and other stakeholders participated in detailed discussions on future strategies and action plans for strengthening the tea sector in Himachal Pradesh.
The participants particularly focused on expanding Matcha tea production and exploring ways to enhance processing, marketing, and export opportunities. Therefore, the meeting highlighted the importance of innovation and collaboration in unlocking the sector’s full potential.
Key Highlights of the JICA Mission praises HPCDP Phase-II:
- JICA Mission praises HPCDP Phase-II in Himachal Pradesh.
- Officials reviewed initiatives aimed at increasing farmers’ income and crop diversification.
- JICA highlighted significant opportunities for Matcha tea production and processing.
- Global demand for Matcha tea could create new income sources for farmers.
- Stakeholders discussed future strategies to strengthen Kangra’s tea sector.
