Himachal Pradesh Introduces Free Transport for Farmer’s Milk and Vegetables

Key Highlights

• Free milk and vegetable transport is available on HRTC buses.
• Higher milk prices: ₹45/liter (cow), ₹55/liter (buffalo).
• ₹3,000 MSP for naturally grown maize.
• Promotion of organic farming with cow dung purchase.
• Removal of gutkha and alcohol ads from buses.

In a big relief to farmers, the Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new Luggage Policy. Under this policy, farmers and suppliers can transport milk and vegetables for free in state-run buses of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). However, individuals traveling with these goods must still pay for their bus fare.

Also Read: State Governments Such as Punjab and Bihar Increase Sugarcane Prices: Farmers to Benefit

Key Highlights of the Scheme

Farmers and suppliers transporting milk or vegetables in Himachal Pradesh will no longer have to pay luggage charges. This initiative aims to lower transportation costs and boost farmer’s profits. The scheme applies to all government buses operated by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) across the state.

The Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri, stated, "This initiative supports farmers and suppliers in bringing their produce to markets, strengthening the state's economy."

Additional Benefits for Farmers

1. Higher Prices for Milk

   • The price of cow milk has increased from ₹38 to ₹45 per liter.
   • Buffalo milk will now be sold at ₹55 per liter, up from ₹47 per liter.
   • This ensures better earnings for dairy farmers, especially when selling through cooperative dairies.

2. Support for Organic Farming

   • The government has raised the amount paid for cow dung purchases, encouraging organic farming practices.

3. Higher MSP for Natural Farming Crops

   • Farmers practicing natural farming techniques will get higher minimum support prices (MSP) for their crops.
   • For example, the MSP for maize grown using natural methods is now ₹3,000 per quintal, compared to the central MSP of ₹2,225 per quintal for conventional farming.

Other Measures

• Removal of Harmful Advertisements: HRTC buses will no longer display ads for gutkha (chewing tobacco) and alcohol, focusing instead on welfare-based advertisements.
• Technological Advancements in Buses: HRTC buses now support credit cards, debit cards, UPI payments, and the National Mobility Card System, benefiting around five lakh daily passengers.

How to Avail the Free Luggage Scheme

If you are a farmer or supplier in Himachal Pradesh, simply use the HRTC buses to transport your milk and vegetables. No extra paperwork is required to avail of this benefit.

This initiative, introduced by the Sukhu government, aims to improve the livelihood of farmers, increase their profits, and strengthen the state's economy.

Also Read: Govt Ensures 34.81 Lakh Metric Tons of DAP for Rabi Season 2024-25

CMV360 Says

The Himachal Pradesh government's initiatives, including free luggage transport, higher milk prices, and increased MSP for natural farming, aim to boost farmers' income and promote sustainability. These measures, along with technological advancements in HRTC buses, reflect a commitment to farmers' welfare and economic growth in the state.