On the lines of the Union Government’s border area development programme, a State area development programme will be started for Bhatiwadi development block in Uttarkashi district, Dharchula and Munsyari blocks in Pithoragarh and the Joshimath block in Chamoli which border China. Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat made this announcement while attending the conclusion of the Harshil apple festival in Uttarkashi on Thursday. The area up to 30 kilometres ahead of Nelang valley will be opened for tourism.

A separate fund will be arranged to facilitate construction of homes of people with property in the border area of Nelang. If any local wants to build a home under the home-stay scheme, additional assistance will be provided apart from that provided under the scheme. A separate development fund will be formed for development blocks in border areas.

As per the demand of farmers, the services of scientists will be taken to facilitate soil testing within 15 days and providing information about apples to cultivators.

Rawat said that this area of Uttarkashi is very important from the view point of horticulture. The Ganga basin provides irrigation for about 45 per cent of the nation’s geographical area. The Ganga has a vital contribution in agricultural production.

He further said that the State Government is providing up to Rs 1 lakh interest-free loan to farmers for agriculture. In addition to this, up to Rs 5 lakh interest-free loan is also being provided for agriculture groups.

Various schemes are being implemented across the nation in order to double the income of farmers. For aged farmers, labourers, barbers, hotel workers and workers under MNREGA, the Shramyogi pension scheme has been implemented, he added.

The local MLA Gopal Singh Rawat said that farmers and horticulturists have benefitted from the organisation of the Harshil apple festival. Various varieties of apple are being cultivated in this area now.

Experts provided all information regarding soil testing and other aspects like applying manure and chemical fertilisers/pesticides during cultivation of apples.

Cash crops are also being encouraged along with apple cultivation so as to achieve the aim of doubling the income of farmers by 2022.

The State Minister for Higher Education and Minister in-charge of the district, Dhan Singh Rawat, District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan, superintendent of police Pankaj Bhatt and others were also present on the occasion.