The state government has announced an important farmer-centric initiative, the “Malta Mission,” aimed at promoting the cultivation of Malta (hill orange) and other citrus fruits, increasing farmers’ income, and giving Uttarakhand’s fruits a strong national identity. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the Uttarakhand government will also organize a Malta Festival in Delhi, enabling farmers to connect directly with larger markets. This step is expected to strengthen fruit branding and help farmers secure better prices for their produce.
During the Malta Festival, the Chief Minister and his wife Geeta Pushkar Dhami visited an exhibition showcasing various varieties of Malta and lemon. Value-added products made from these fruits were also displayed. The exhibition provided farmers and visitors with insights into fruit utilization, processing techniques, and modern cultivation practices.
CM Dhami highlighted that Malta is closely linked to Uttarakhand’s identity, culture, and traditions. He emphasized that fruit cultivation can play a key role in strengthening the state’s economy. Referring to the success of the Apple Mission and Kiwi Mission, he said the Malta Mission would similarly provide support to farmers and accelerate horticultural growth in the state.
The government is continuously working to support farmers and enhance fruit branding. Malta festivals are being organized at the district level, and events in major markets like Delhi will help establish direct links with buyers. These efforts will create better marketing opportunities for farmers. Alongside this, special emphasis is being placed on increasing farmer income through advanced farming methods, new technologies, and government incentives. Promoting locally suitable, hill-friendly crops is also expected to generate employment within villages and help curb migration from hilly areas.
According to official information, the state is expanding orchards of Malta along with apples, pears, kiwi, walnuts, peaches, and other citrus fruits. The government has also announced a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Malta and Galgal.
Key Benefits Available to Farmers:
Addition, a special center for aromatic plants has been established in Selakui under the initiative known as “Mehak Kranti.”
Uttarakhand Aims for a New Identity in Fruit Farming:
The Chief Minister said the state government is working to make Uttarakhand a leading state in fruit cultivation through modern technology, incentive-based schemes, and effective marketing strategies. The festival was attended by MP Naresh Bansal, MLA Savita Kapoor, Agriculture Secretary Dr. S.N. Pandey, and farmers from various districts.
Overall, the Uttarakhand Malta Festival and Malta Mission are expected to provide a new direction to farmers, boost fruit production, enhance incomes, and establish Uttarakhand’s Malta and other fruits as strong brands in national and international markets.
FAQs:
1. What is the Malta Mission?
The Malta Mission is an initiative by the Uttarakhand government to promote the cultivation of Malta and citrus fruits, increasing farmer income and fruit branding.
2. What financial benefits do farmers get under the Malta Mission?
Farmers can avail up to 50% financial assistance for orchards, 70-80% subsidy on micro-irrigation, and up to 60% subsidy for food processing units.
3. How does the Malta Festival help farmers?
The festival connects farmers directly with large markets, enabling better price realization and promoting fruit branding.
4. What crops are promoted under the Malta Mission?
Besides Malta, the mission supports apples, pears, kiwi, walnuts, peaches, and other citrus fruits.
5. How can Khetivyapar help farmers?
Khetivyapar provides expert guidance, market updates, and support for modern farming technologies to farmers engaged in Malta cultivation.
