Kinnauri Apples Creating Buzz in Markets Nationwide, Farmers Earning Record Prices
Kinnaur (Himachal Pradesh):
Apples from Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district are in high demand across markets nationwide due to their unmatched sweetness, rich flavor, and premium quality. The apple season is currently at its peak in the Pooh and Kalpa blocks, and farmers are reaping impressive profits.
Farmers Getting Excellent Prices
This season, growers are earning between ₹2,500 and ₹2,800 per 22 kg apple box. Gift packs are selling for ₹1,100 to ₹1,500. With the implementation of the universal carton system, all apple boxes are now uniformly packed in 22 kilograms.
Season in Full Swing – Over 17.46 Lakh Boxes Dispatched
So far, a total of 17,46,967 boxes have been sent to markets across the country and the state. The season has nearly ended in the Nichar block, which has dispatched 8,60,781 boxes. Meanwhile, 4,71,798 boxes have been sent from Kalpa and 4,39,504 from Pooh.
Additionally, 8,450 bags have been procured directly by APMC and HPMC.
Wider Market Reach for Growers
Farmers are transporting their apples to major markets including Ratanpur, Shimla, Solan, Chandigarh/Pinjore, Delhi, Mumbai (Vithal), Sainj, Khegsu, Matiana, Parwanoo, and Narkanda. They report better returns this year compared to the previous season.
Estimated Dip in Total Production
Dr. B.S. Negi, Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department in Kinnaur, stated that apple production is expected to reach 33 lakh boxes this year — significantly lower than last year’s 48.31 lakh boxes.
The decline of around 15 lakh boxes is attributed to hailstorms in May and unfavorable weather conditions. Dr. Negi added that the final numbers will be clear only after the season concludes.
3 Comments