Shimla, July 29: “CII Himachal Pradesh welcomes the decision of restoring the old scheme of subsidy on agriculture/ horticulture pesticide by the State Government. CII Himachal Pradesh was advocating for scrapping the new mechanism of subsidy through reimbursement as it was a big failure” said Mr Subodh Gupta, Chairman, CII Himachal Pradesh.

“Restoration of old scheme of procuring and providing subsidized pesticide by Government of Himachal Pradesh through horticulture department at the farmer’s doorstep will immensely help the agriculture and horticulture community of the state specifically the Apple growers as these pesticides are very crucial in controlling diseases in apple and other stone fruits orchards” said Mr Rakesh Ahuja, Convenor – Panel on Horticulture and Tourism, CII Himachal Pradesh. Mr Ahuja further added that with the persistent efforts of CII this decision is a welcome move by the state Government.

“Apple growers of the state are already under stress due price rise in packaging Material as Central Government has increased GST on these packaging material from 12- 18 % which is adversely impacting the apple growers of the state and CII has already taken this matter with State and Central Government and has requested GST Council to revisit this decision” said Mr Gagan Kapoor, Vice Chairman, CII Himachal Pradesh.