Horticulture Revolution in Himachal: Minister Jagat Singh Negi Reviews Progress of ‘HPSHIVA’ Project

SHIMLA | August 6, 2026

In a major push towards strengthening rural livelihoods and expanding fruit cultivation in lower and mid-hill areas, Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi reviewed the progress of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded HPSHIVA Project. The flagship initiative is currently being executed across seven key districts: Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra, Solan, Sirmour, and Una.

🌳 Phase-I Progress: 1,543 Hectares Planted, 10,646 Families Benefited

During the review meeting, the Minister noted significant strides made under the first phase of the project, which aims to develop 3,000 hectares of land:

• Land Development & Plantation: Out of the target area, 2,612 hectares have already been developed. Plantation is complete across 1,543 hectares, while an additional 1,000 hectares will be covered during the current monsoon season.

• Winter Crops: Plantation for winter-season crops such as plum and persimmon in the remaining areas will be completed between January and February 2027.

• Cluster Formation: A total of 331 clusters have been finalized to cover the 3,000-hectare target, directly empowering around 10,646 farmer families.

📋 Phase-II Status: 2,500 Hectares Identified, ADB Technical Clearance Awaited

Minister Jagat Singh Negi highlighted that preparatory work for Phase-II of the HPSHIVA project is moving ahead rapidly:

• Around 2,500 hectares have been identified for Phase-II, with active field surveys underway across 2,153 hectares.

• Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for approximately 1,200 hectares have been finalized and submitted to the ADB for technical clearance.

• The tendering process is scheduled to commence in the last week of August following clearance from the ADB.

⚠️ Crackdown on Slow Progress: Penalties & Payment Withholding

Reviewing civil infrastructure development—including solar fencing, land preparation, drip irrigation, and lift irrigation schemes—the Minister voiced strong displeasure over delays.

Taking firm disciplinary action:

1. Penalties were imposed on two contractors for persistent slow progress despite multiple follow-ups.

2. Project officers were strictly instructed to withhold all pending bills of contractors until the required manpower is fully deployed at the cluster sites.