Shimla, Nov. 7 -- Himachal Pradesh's first National Stone Fruit Conference was held at Thanadhar in Shimla district, jointly hosted by the Stone Fruit Growers Association, the Department of Horticulture, and the Krishi Vigyan Kendra. The conference brought together policymakers, scientists, fruit growers, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies to strengthen, diversify, and sustain the economy of stone fruits as a viable alternative and complement to apple cultivation. Revenue, Horticulture, Tribal Development, and Public Grievances Minister Jagat Singh Negi, who presided over the event as the chief guest, said horticulture is the "lifeline" of farmers in Himachal's hill regions. MLA from Theog, Kuldeep Singh Rathore said such conferences provide an important platform for farmers, scientists, and policymakers to work together for the overall development of the horticulture sector. He urged scientists to conduct field trials and offer practical advice directly to growers. Rathore said the Thanadhar conference would prove to be a milestone in the state's horticultural development....