On the successful completion of HPCDP Phase-I in five districts of Himachal Pradesh, 1010.60 crore Phase-ll of the H.P. Crop Diversification Project (HPCDP) supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was put to implementation from June 2021, onwards. This project is also being implemented in society mode under the HP Agriculture Development Society, formed under the Society Registration Act. 2006 (Registration No. 43/2011 dated 07-02-2011). The HPADS is started by epic bodies i.e. the Governing Council/Body, headed by the Hon'ble Agriculture Minister to the GoHP, the Executive Committee, headed by the Worthy Secretary (Agri.) to the GoHP.

This Phase of the JICA ODA comprise of 807.30 crore as loan 203.30 crore as state share. JICA has committed to lend JPY 11302 Million under the said ODA at 1.15% annual rate of interest for the state along with 54.60 crore of towards consulting service at 0.15% annual rate of interest. This loan effectuation is from July, 2021 to September 2031. While project period remains from June, 2021 to December, 2029. Loan repayment period is of 30 years and shall be made by the Govt. of India. The Phase-II of JICA aided Crop Diversification Project will be implemented in all 12 districts of the State to boost up the socio-economic status of farmers as have been achieved in the phase-I of the project implemented in five pilot districts of Mandi, Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Una since 2011.

In phase-ll of the project, there shall be 306 sub projects for providing irrigation facilities in 7933 ha. area. The targeted increase of gross income per hectare is expected to be 2.50 lakh at the end of project from the existing 0.625 lakh per ha. (Baseline survey).

For smooth and effective implementation of Phase-II project, 15 No. Block Project Management Units, 4 Nos. District Project Management Units established and well equipped with necessary staff & other logistics. The State Project Management Unit (SPMU) as State headquarter, has been established at Agriculture Complex, Hamirpur (H.P).

As, I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude and thanks to the authorities from JICA India, Govt. of India, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh & all other stake holders of HPCDP for accomplishment of Phase-l of the project as well as approval of the Phase-II.

Dr. Sunil Chauhan
Project Director