Una, July 21: Farmers were trained in modern horticulture and scientific fruit production techniques during a one-day training workshop organized under the HP-SHIVA project in the Balh Panchayat of Una district. Approximately 35 farmers and horticulturists participated in the workshop, which was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Director (Horticulture) Dr. K.K. Bhardwaj.
Dr. K.K. Bhardwaj stated that the HP-SHIVA project is an effective initiative aimed at boosting farmers' income while giving a new direction to horticulture in the state. He urged farmers to adopt scientific farming methods and derive maximum benefit from the project.
Project Team Leader Akash Asthana provided detailed information regarding the role of community institutions—such as CHPMA and WUA—and the importance of farmer participation in the project's successful implementation. He emphasized that collective efforts would yield the best results for the scheme.
Environmental experts Dr. Manoj Joshi and Lingaraj Panda, visiting from Shimla, outlined environmental and social safeguard standards while emphasizing the adoption of sustainable horticulture practices alongside the conservation of natural resources.
Expert Rao Sahab familiarized farmers with scientific techniques for post-harvest handling of guavas, including grading, quality preservation, packaging, and marketing. He explained that these measures could enhance both the quality of the produce and its market value.
During the workshop, farmers interacted directly with the experts to have their queries addressed. Participants described the training as beneficial, noting that it would assist them in adopting modern horticultural techniques and increasing production.
Horticulture Development Officer Virendra Bhardwaj, Horticulture Extension Officer Vandana, and other departmental officials and staff were present on the occasion.