Himachal Pradesh’s apple economy to face losses this year

SHIMLA: The apple economy of Himachal Pradesh is set to face huge losses this year, owing to drought like conditions first due to less snowfall in winter and now because of low rainfall in summer. Drought conditions have not only affected apple plantations, but have also affected the production of other crops. Initially, it was estimated that the state this year will produce over 3 crore boxes, but now it is likely to remain way below the estimates.

This is the second consecutive year when adverse weather conditions have badly affected the estimated Rs 5,000 crore apple economy of the state. Last year, excessive rainfall was recorded in the state from March onwards till August, then very less precipitation was recorded during winter season, from Sept 2023 to Jan this year and now for the last 4 months, from March to June this year, the dry spell has taken toll on apple plantations.

Lokender Singh Bisht, state president of Progressive Growers Association, said: "If drought situation continues like this, then this year's crop may be adversely affected. Now July rain is the only hope left." He added that in the apple belts of state, around 30-50% mortality of new plantations have been reported, and in some places, it is even 70-80%.

Harish Chauhan, Sanyukt Kisan Manch convener, said that due to lack of moisture in the ground, fruits have started falling, which has increased the concern of apple growers. "Climate change has started affecting apple crop as Dec snowfall has now shifted to Feb, and now the flowering time has also changed."

Usha Sharma, a senior scientist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Rohru, said diseased old plants have dried up due to the prolonged dry season. "Apple growers should try mulching to retain moisture in the soil, and they should use drip irrigation methods to provide moisture," Sharma said.


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