Blueberry Cultivation Introduced in Dehradun for the First Time; Pilot Project Launched with 10 Farmers

New initiative under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to promote high-value horticulture crops
500 blueberry saplings to be provided at 80% subsidy; cultivation to be undertaken in NABARD-supported polyhouses
Blueberry Mission included in the district plan with a special focus on enhancing farmers’ income
Successful implementation could lead to cluster-based expansion across the district, says DM

Dehradun.

In a significant step toward promoting agricultural innovation and high-value horticulture, the Dehradun district administration has launched a pilot project for blueberry cultivation for the first time in the district. The initiative aims to diversify farming practices and create new income opportunities for farmers through the cultivation of premium-value crops.

Being implemented under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the project is being carried out by the district administration and the Horticulture Department as part of efforts to promote modern and profitable farming practices in Uttarakhand.

District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan said that after a detailed assessment of the climatic and geographical conditions of the Sahaspur region, the Horticulture Department identified the area as suitable for blueberry cultivation. As part of the pilot phase, 10 progressive farmers from Sahaspur Block have been selected to receive technical and financial support.

Under the project, each selected farmer will receive approximately 500 blueberry saplings for cultivation on a 500-square-meter area. The saplings will be provided with an 80 percent subsidy, significantly reducing the initial investment burden on farmers. In addition, participants will receive specialized training in scientific cultivation practices, plant care, irrigation management, nutrient management, and production techniques.

Cultivation to be Undertaken in NABARD-Supported Polyhouses

Chief Horticulture Officer D.K. Tiwari informed that blueberry cultivation under the pilot project will be carried out in polyhouses established with support from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development. The controlled environment of polyhouses is expected to improve crop quality, productivity, and overall farm profitability.

He added that several farmers had shown interest in blueberry farming during departmental training programs, and 10 farmers have been selected for the initial phase of implementation.

Commercial Production Expected Within Two Years

According to horticulture experts, blueberry plants generally begin fruit production within two years of plantation. Once established, the crop can provide farmers with a sustainable and long-term source of income. The department believes that scientific cultivation methods can make blueberry farming a commercially viable venture in the region.

High Market Demand and Attractive Returns

Blueberries are considered a high-value fruit crop globally and currently command market prices ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per kilogram. Growing consumer awareness regarding healthy diets and antioxidant-rich foods has led to a steady increase in demand for blueberries across major urban markets and the food processing sector.

Officials believe that the crop offers strong commercial prospects and can help farmers earn significantly higher returns compared to many traditional farming options.

Marketing Support for Farmers

District Magistrate Dr. Chauhan emphasized that the administration will not only support production but will also work to ensure better market linkages for farmers. Efforts will be made to connect growers with buyers, processors, and marketing agencies so that they receive fair prices for their produce.

Dehradun Could Emerge as a New Blueberry Hub

The District Magistrate expressed confidence that if the pilot project delivers encouraging results, it will be expanded on a cluster basis across other suitable areas of the district. Such expansion could position Dehradun as an emerging center for blueberry production in northern India.

He noted that just as Dehradun’s renowned Basmati rice has earned national recognition, blueberry cultivation has the potential to become a new identity and income-generating opportunity for farmers in the district.

A Major Step Toward Agricultural Diversification

Agricultural experts view the initiative as an important move toward crop diversification and the promotion of modern horticulture. Innovative projects such as blueberry farming can encourage farmers to adopt high-value crops, strengthen the rural economy, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The Blueberry Pilot Mission is expected to serve as a model for future agricultural innovation projects in Uttarakhand, contributing to enhanced farmer incomes, modernization of agriculture, and the overall development of the horticulture sector.