Apple growers in India are navigating economic gains and climate-driven hardships due to changing market dynamics and environmental conditions. In Kashmir, growers benefit from rising demand for stored apples, while in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district, farmers face declining snowfall, impacting their orchards.
In Kashmir, demand for apples stored in cold storage units has increased, prompting growers to release apples earlier to maximize profits. Traditionally, apples from Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage are dispatched in mid-February, but this year, sales began in January. Javid Ahmad Reshie, a fruit grower from Shopian, reported that a standard 10-kilogram apple box is selling for approximately $16–$18, and 16-kilogram boxes for about $22–$24. By October 2024, cold storage facilities in Pulwama and Shopian reached full capacity, anticipating better market rates.
Last year, 20% of stored apples remained unsold due to imported varieties. However, this year's demand has growers hopeful. Approximately 300,000 metric tonnes of apples are stored in CA units across the Valley, contributing to the region's annual apple production of 2–2.5 million metric tonnes. The demand briefly dipped due to the Delhi elections, but prices rebounded. Mehraj Ahmad, a cold storage unit manager, emphasized the need for improved packaging and grading to compete with imports.
In contrast, apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district face challenges due to reduced snowfall. Rainfall was 77% below normal between January and February. Growers transport snow from higher elevations to retain soil moisture. Suresh Borish, an orchardist, explained, "Due to the lack of irrigation facilities, farmers are entirely dependent on snowfall for moisture. But with reduced snowfall, we are forced to transport snow from shaded areas, where it lasts longer, and place it around apple trunks." Without this measure, young trees risk damage from dryness. Experts warn that the ongoing drought could reduce apple yields by up to 30% this year.
Climate change is leading farmers to abandon traditional apple varieties like 'royal' in favor of resilient types such as 'spur.' The India Meteorological Department reported that Kinnaur experienced 90% less rainfall than usual from January to February, compounding the crisis.
While Kashmir's apple growers benefit from improved market conditions, Himachal Pradesh growers struggle with climate-induced hardships. Both regions highlight the evolving challenges India's apple industry faces. Investments in climate-resilient techniques, better irrigation, and expanded cold storage are essential for securing apple cultivation in the country.
Source: Down to Earth
Source: Good Morning Kashmir