4th rank in the state. Solan district occupies 4th rank among the districts of the state in terms of the literate population. It has a literate population of 428,578 persons. The economy of Solan district is more or less dependent on agriculture. It has returned 141,267 persons as cultivators and holds the 8th position among the districts of the state. Solan district is known for its exquisite climate which attracts a large number of tourists from the plains around the year. Shivalik range of mountains full of diverse flora and fauna make Solan district as a whole an exhilarating experience. Solan district has an important place on the tourist map of the state with famous tourist places like Solan town, Chail, Kasauli, Barog and Dagshai. Solan is famous for the production of off-season vegetables. Because of the high production of Mushroom the town of Solan still holds the fame of the Mushroom City of India. Solan is also known as City of Red Gold as a large number of tomatoes are produced in the region. Economy Agriculture Agriculture is the prominent feature of Solan district. It is the main occupation of the inhabitants of Solan district and about 60 percent of people are dependent on their livelihood on agriculture and its allied activities. Maize, wheat, and barley are the main crops and onion, pulses and peas are the main cash crops grown in many parts of the district. Vegetables like cabbage, turnip, beans, ladyfinger, tomato, radish, chilies, garlic, etc. are grown in many parts of the district. Besides this cultivation of mushroom in the district is also very high. So much so that N.R.C.M. (National Research Centre for Mushroom), Central Government Body is located in Solan town. People not only involved in the agriculture of the mushroom but they also use it for preparing Pickles, Murabas, and soups of mushroom. Because the cultivation of mushroom is very popular in Solan, so people call the city of Solan as "Mushroom City". Horticulture The climatic and geographical conditions of the Solan district provide the good scope for the development of the horticulture. People of the district prefer horticulture over the agriculture and the area under horticulture is increasing year after year in the district. Apricot, plum, pear, mango, banana, grapes and kiwi etc. are the main fruits of this district. In addition to this some natural and traditional fruits such as chulli