Mrs Vidya Stokes

Mrs Vidya Stokes (2008)
Leader of Opposition, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Shimla Mrs. Vidya Stokes, born and brought up in Himachal Pradesh initiated her interest in horticulture in 1983 when Scab disease took an epidemic form and destroyed almost the entire apple crop of this state. As Chairperson of HPMC, she was able to convince GOI to allow the import of light weight power sprayers from Japan besides introducing card-board cartons. First elected to Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha in 1974, she became a Minister of State for Rural Development and was subsequently elevated to Speaker in March, 1985. She has been Member, NHB and is the recipient of two International Awards for her distinguished role in the field of Horticulture Marketing, Processing and Storage of Fresh and Processed Fruits.