Apple Season Sees Record Market Arrivals in Himachal Despite Rain-Hit Roads; 55,000 MT Procured via HPMC. 

Shimla:

In a remarkable turnaround amid weather-related adversities, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a record-breaking apple season this year, with 1,73,74,204 apple boxes (20 kg each) reaching markets across the state between June 27 and September 15, 2025. This figure represents a 41% surge compared to 1,23,18,924 boxes recorded during the same period last year, despite widespread road damage caused by torrential monsoon rains.

The impressive rise in apple arrivals has been attributed to the constant supervision by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the round-the-clock efforts of the Public Works Department (PWD). The administration swiftly carried out restoration and temporary reconnection of critical roadways, ensuring smooth passage of apple-laden trucks even in severely affected areas.

Surge in APMC Sales Across Districts

A government spokesperson shared detailed market arrival data from various Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs):

• Shimla and Kinnaur APMC: 1,09,86,863 boxes sold (up from 77,40,164 in 2024)
• Mandi APMC: 16,81,055 boxes (down from 89,19,893 last year, reflecting regional impact)
• Solan APMC: 24,90,835 boxes (up from 22,18,685)
• Kullu APMC: 20,88,374 boxes (up from 14,03,392)

Despite the dip in Mandi’s figures, the overall state performance has been exceptional, with growers and authorities working in unison to keep the supply chain functional.

55,000 MT Procured Under MIS; Collection Centres Expanded

In a major support initiative under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) has procured over 55,000 metric tonnes of apples — more than double compared to last year. To streamline this process, 274 collection centres have been established, actively facilitating procurement.

However, due to persistent road blockages in some remote regions, trucks have been unable to reach a few centres. In response, CM Sukhu has directed immediate deployment of additional trucks to ensure timely lifting and prevent any loss to orchardists.

Processing Plants Running at Full Capacity

HPMC’s fruit processing plants in Parala (Shimla), Parwanoo (Solan), and Jarol (Mandi) are operating at full capacity, collectively processing about 400 tonnes of apples daily. This has helped not only in efficient handling of produce but also in providing value-addition opportunities to growers.

CM Reaffirms Commitment to Horticulturists

Speaking on the season’s performance, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to apple growers. “Our priority has always been to safeguard the interests of horticulturists. The successful introduction of the Universal Carton is ensuring remunerative prices and ending middlemen exploitation. We will continue to support orchardists in every possible way,” he stated.

Despite the challenges posed by an unforgiving monsoon, Himachal Pradesh has not only protected its apple economy but has also set new benchmarks in crisis management and agricultural resilience.