Shimla, Sept. 30 – The Himachal Pradesh government is exploring a partnership with New Zealand to enhance apple and pear cultivation in the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met with a New Zealand delegation, led by High Commissioner Patrick John Rata, to discuss potential collaboration in the horticulture sector.
“The state could benefit from New Zealand’s advanced horticultural practices, technology transfer, and farmer capacity building,” Sukhu said. He added that such cooperation would improve productivity, strengthen post-harvest management, and help meet international quality standards, boosting the global competitiveness of Himachal’s produce.
Sukhu highlighted that New Zealand’s experts could provide technical guidance in high-density plantation, orchard management, pest and disease control, storage, and marketing strategies. “This initiative would not only enhance yield and quality but also strengthen Himachal’s horticulture-driven economy,” he said.
The Chief Minister also noted that his government remains committed to increasing apple growers’ income and has taken several measures over the past two-and-a-half years to support the sector. With New Zealand’s expertise, the state hopes to adopt modern, sustainable, and climate-resilient farming practices, marking a new phase in apple and pear cultivation.
Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi also shared suggestions during the meeting to further the initiative.
