The state government has announced that the verification and approval process for pending subsidy claims of apple-growing farmers will begin today, following directions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to expedite financial assistance under the horticulture schemes. Once verification is completed, the sanctioned amount will be disbursed directly to eligible farmers’ accounts.
Our correspondent reports that the Chief Minister has instructed the Horticulture Department to prioritise subsidy payments for beneficiaries under the Mission Apple Scheme and Atal Horticulture Development Mission, covering fiscal years from 2016–17 to 2022–23 and the ongoing 2023–24 phase. The move is aimed at providing timely financial relief to farmers and improving support for orchard management and crop expansion.
Our correspondent adds that Chief Secretary Radha Raturi chaired a high-level meeting on Sunday to review the progress of the subsidy disbursement process. The meeting was attended by the Finance Secretary, Agriculture Secretary, and senior district officials. She directed all concerned departments to complete physical verification and documentation of pending claims without delay and to ensure transparency in the release of funds.
Officials confirmed that the state government has allocated ₹35 crore for subsidy disbursal under the 2025–26 cycle. The fund will benefit hundreds of apple-producing farmers across the hill districts who have been waiting for their state share of assistance. The Chief Secretary emphasised that the government’s top priority is to ensure that all eligible farmers receive their due benefits in a time-bound manner.
Our correspondent reports that the Chief Secretary also directed district magistrates and chief horticulture officers to coordinate at the local level and submit status reports on the progress of verification. The process includes validating field inspections, checking plantation records, and verifying farmers’ documents for final approval.
The government’s review also covered the Atal Horticulture Development Scheme, which focuses on improving fruit productivity, promoting high-density plantations, and introducing new apple varieties suited to Uttarakhand’s climate. Officials said these initiatives are strengthening the horticulture ecosystem and boosting rural income in mountainous regions.
Chief Minister Dhami reaffirmed that his government remains committed to the welfare of farmers and aims to ensure that every eligible beneficiary receives timely financial support. He said the administration’s focus is on empowering farmers through modern cultivation techniques, scientific orchard management, and transparent implementation of schemes.
He added that horticulture plays a crucial role in the economic development of hill districts and that government-backed assistance programmes have led to visible improvements in apple cultivation and farmer income.
The verification process starting today marks a significant step toward clearing all pending subsidy claims and ensuring financial stability for Uttarakhand’s apple farmers.
