In a groundbreaking ceremony, Revenue and
Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi laid the foundation stone for the
world’s first Controlled Atmosphere (CA) store based on geothermal
technology at Tapri in Kinnaur district. This one-of-a-kind project, supported by Iceland, marks a significant milestone in
the field of horticulture, especially for the tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh.

A
Pioneering Collaboration Between Iceland and Himachal Pradesh

The foundation stone ceremony was graced by
the presence of several dignitaries, including the Ambassador of Iceland,
Benedikt Hoskuldsson, Commercial Counsellor Rahul Chongtham, Chairman of
Geotrappi Tomas Otto Hansen, and CEO of Kalera Group Gudmundur Thor
Thormodsson. The event also saw participation from prominent geothermal
scientists who have been instrumental in this project.

The presence of geothermal scientists
emphasizes the technical expertise and knowledge-sharing involved in this
groundbreaking initiative.

What is a CA Store?

A CA store is a controlled atmosphere
storage facility used to preserve fruits and vegetables. It creates a specific
environment with controlled levels of temperature, humidity, and gas
composition (primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide) to extend the shelf life of produce.
This technology is particularly useful for fruits and vegetables that are
highly perishable, such as apples, pears, grapes, and tomatoes.

By carefully regulating these factors, CA stores
can slow down the ripening process and prevent spoilage, allowing produce to be
stored for longer periods without significant loss of quality. This helps to
ensure a steady supply of fresh produce throughout the year, reduces food
waste, and can improve the profitability of agricultural businesses.

Geothermal Technology and Its Potential

– Geothermal technology is expected to
revolutionize storage facilities for horticulturists by providing a sustainable
and efficient alternative to conventional methods.

– The significance of this collaboration, made
possible through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the governments of
Iceland and Himachal Pradesh has paved the way for this visionary project,
which is the first of its kind in the world.

Benefits and Impact

• The use of geothermal technology in the CA
  store is poised to offer cost-effective solutions to horticulturists,
  contributing to the economic growth of the region.
• The project aligns with initiatives aimed at
  boosting the income of small and marginal farmers by providing access to
  advanced seeds and modern technologies.
• This strategic shift, supported by modern
  agricultural practices, is expected to position Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture
  sector competitively on a global scale.

Training
and Capacity Building

Ambassador Benedikt Hoskuldsson of Iceland
reaffirmed Iceland’s commitment to this pioneering project, stating that
Icelandic scientists would provide specialized training in geothermal
technology to horticulture experts from Himachal Pradesh. This knowledge
transfer is expected to enhance the expertise of local horticulturists,
enabling them to fully leverage the benefits of geothermal technology in
storage and cultivation practices.

The rich cultural exchange between the
representatives of Iceland and the Kinnaur district showcases the collaborative
and culturally enriching nature of the project.

Sustainable Development Initiatives

The announcement of land allocation under the
Forest Rights Act, 2006, reflects a commitment to sustainable and inclusive
development in tribal areas.

On the same occasion, Minister Negi
inaugurated a wood depot at the Sholtu forest rest house. He noted that this
facility would address the region’s fuel wood scarcity, further supporting the
livelihood of the local population.

Conclusion:
A Step Towards Sustainable and Innovative Horticulture

The laying of the foundation stone for the CA
store based on geothermal technology in Kinnaur marks a significant step
towards sustainable and innovative horticulture practices in Himachal Pradesh.
This project is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives globally,
demonstrating the potential of geothermal technology in agriculture. The
collaboration between Iceland and Himachal Pradesh is not only a testament to
international cooperation but also a beacon of hope for the economic
empowerment of farmers in tribal regions.
The project not only contributes to the
economic prosperity of horticulturists but also promotes knowledge exchange and
cultural enrichment.