Himachal’s Natural Farming Boost: A Gateway to Health and Self-Employment
New Avenues for Youth Under HIM Natural Farming Product Scheme
Imagine growing wheat and corn through natural farming and having the government buy it from you at fair prices! Himachal Pradesh’s HIM Natural Farming Product Scheme is not just about producing food—it is paving the way for health, self-employment, and economic growth. The state government has taken a remarkable step by launching the ‘Him Bhog’ brand, encouraging farmers to embrace natural farming while providing consumers with healthier alternatives.
Under this scheme, the government has introduced “Ice Corn Flour” in its first phase. This nutritious product is now available to the general public through fair-price shops in 1 kg and 5 kg packaging.
A New Era of Self-Employment for Youth
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially launched the Snow Natural Farming Product Scheme in Bilaspur in December 2024, marking two years of the current administration. The initiative also saw the introduction of the Him Bhog brand, distributing Himachal’s natural maize flour to selected beneficiaries.
To make farming more profitable, the government is purchasing maize at a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹3,000 per quintal. This move is expected to encourage more farmers and youth to take up natural farming. The plan is set to expand further, with more natural farming products being introduced under the “Ice Consumption” brand.
Premium Quality at an Affordable Price
According to Rajiv Sharma, Una’s District Food Supply Controller, Him Bhog’s natural maize flour is being distributed through 322 depots across the district, ensuring easy accessibility. Sanjeev Kumar, Area Manager of Civil Supply Corporation, revealed that 111 quintals of natural maize have already been procured from 16 farmers in Una district.
Himachal Pradesh leads the nation in providing the highest support price for wheat and maize. Currently, wheat is bought at ₹40 per kg and maize at ₹30 per kg, ensuring fair compensation for farmers.
Farmers and Consumers Welcome the Initiative
Farmers from Una district have expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Sukhu for supporting natural farming. They believe this initiative perfectly blends health, employment, and government assistance.
Consumers, too, are thrilled about the availability of natural food products. Neelam Dwivedi from Una praised the affordability and taste of Ice Corn Flour, while Sulekha Devi and Sonia Saini from Kotla Kalan emphasized its benefits for diabetes patients. Meena Devi from Chatara and Sarvjeet Kaur applauded the government for providing healthy and budget-friendly food options.
Una’s Deputy Commissioner, Jatin Lal, stated that the Himachal government’s Snow Natural Farming Product Scheme is a significant step in empowering farmers and offering healthier food choices. Additionally, it opens up self-employment opportunities for the youth, ensuring sustainable development for the state.
With such initiatives, Himachal Pradesh is setting an example for sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment, making natural farming a profitable and healthy choice for all.
