New Zealand Offers Tech Support to Boost Apple Farming in Himachal Pradesh

New Zealand High Commissioner Patrick Rata led a delegation to Himachal Pradesh's capital Shimla, where they met with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The discussion centered around cooperation in apple horticulture and natural farming.

Apple production is a vital part of the state's economy, and the government aims to strengthen its horticulture sector through new technology and innovation. Sukhu emphasized the need for exposure visits between farmers from Himachal Pradesh and New Zealand to promote modern apple cultivation practices.

The Chief Minister also discussed natural farming with the delegation, and they expressed willingness to provide technical expertise to boost apple horticulture in the state. They proposed establishing an Apple Horticulture Centre of Excellence in Himachal Pradesh.