Shimla, Dec 1 (IANS): Himachal Pradesh Governor Urmila Singh Monday said efforts should be made to increase the production of fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers beside conducting research on developing new varieties to boost economy.

Speaking at the convocation of the Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Solan district, she stressed on adopting latest technology to keep pace with developments in research and education.

She said e-education should be promoted, adding regular interactions and discussions with experts are essential.

The governor, who is also the chancellor of the university, said competitive spirit should be developed among students so that they could compete at a global level and make significant contribution in horticulture and forestry fields.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh stressed upon conservation of forests.

"The dependency and human pressure on forests will increase and it's the moral duty of all of us to protect the forests from degradation and come forward for preserving them," he said.

The chief minister announced a financial assistance of Rs.8 crore to the university and also announced Rs.1.50 crore as a special grant for beautification of the campus.

The state produces around 5.60 lakh tonne of fruits on 2.18 lakh hectares of land and 15.21 lakh tonne of vegetables on 80,000 hectares of land annually. As far as floriculture is concerned, 40,000 tonne of flowers are being grown on 1,000 hectares of land, he said.

"This was only possible with the new research and latest technology in agrarian and allied sectors," the chief minister said.