The anti-hail guns, installed by the previous BJP government in selected locations in Himachal, have failed to protect the apple crop, Power minister Vidya Stokes said today.
"Initial results about the efficacy of anti-hail guns are not clear and even common fruit growers have doubts about its usefulness," she told the legislative assembly.
Three anti-hail guns were installed by the previous BJP government in apple-growing areas in Shimla district in 2010 to protect the crop against hailstorms.
Also Read
These were installed at Deorighat, Braionghat and Kathasu at a cost of Rs 3.29 crore under a centrally-sponsored project to protect apples during flowering and fruit-setting stage.
In reply to a question, Stokes said the guns had failed to protect the crop from hails and, in fact, their impact was felt more in nearby fields.
She said the government would promote anti-hail nets by providing 80 per cent subsidy instead of installing more anti-hail guns.
The minister, however, said the government had sought feedback from farmers and in case they find it beneficial, the scheme might be continued.
