Uttaranchal to have 300 model litchi orchards

The state government also plans to upgrade private orchards to international standards under the Horticulture Technology Mission.

Ishwar Chand, a litchi grower in Chandroti village of Dehra Dun district, could not irrigate his orchard this season due to inadequate water supply.

With the demand of litchi exports increasing worldwide, Chand like any other farmer was also hoping for a bumper crop. Unfortunately, that did not happen. He is now just banking on the next season.

But Chand may not have to wait that long. Under a new scheme, the Uttaranchal government with the help of the Centre has decided to develop 300 model litchi orchards across the state to boost production and create a new brand. Chand's orchard has been selected in the new scheme.

These private orchards, spread over an area of 450 hectare, are being upgraded to international standards under the Horticulture Technology Mission.

These orchards are located in Nainital, Udhamsingh Nagar and Dehra Dun districts.

"We are setting up 300 model orchards so that a new brand can be created in the international market," said Navin Nainwal, coordinator of the Agri Export Development Unit (AEDU).

Chand will soon be issued a litchi credit card of the State Bank of India (SBI) by using the card, he can now construct his own water tank to irrigate his orchard. Like Chand, Goverdhan Shahi of Naya Gaon village will also benefit through the scheme.

The present production of litchi in the state stands at 2,050 Mt. The scheme aims to increase the production to 6,000 Mt within the next three years.

An expert team comprising pathologists, entomologists and agronomists from the prestigious Pant Nagar Agriculture University would visit these orchards from time to time and offer expert advise and remedial solutions to the farmers.

Out of the 300 orchards, 125 would be set up in Dehra Dun, 50 in Udhamsingh Nagar and 125 in Nainital district.

Farmers of the three districts are also being informed about the the six critical stages which the scheme has identified as necessary for a better yield.

To this end, a brochure is also being circulated among the farmers. They will also be provided with a booklet to maintain a record of the critical stages.