Golden Apple harvest brings a smile to Himachal orchard owners

Himachal Pradeshs Golden Apple has staged a relishing comeback after being ruined in 2006 by adverse climatic conditions.

Kullu, May 14 : Himachal Pradesh's Golden Apple has staged a relishing comeback after being ruined in 2006 by adverse climatic conditions.

This prime cash crop of the State is expected to witness an increase of 30 to 40 percent in terms of yield in the present year, as compared to the meagre yield of 2006.

The arrival of rain and snowfall prior to the flowering season, is responsible for the better yield, claim apple orchard owners and growers.

"This year, the yield has risen due to timely rain and snowfall. Unfortunately, last year, the snowfall was less, which eventually led to a financial crisis for farmers. This year, the yield is better, and it means more money," said Arun Kumar, an apple grower.

"The yield has risen by 30 to 35 percent this year as compared to last year. Due to proper rain and snowfall, the flowering was good, leading to higher productivity.

Though the crop witnessed rough climate at few places as well, comparatively it's much better.

Last year, our crops suffered because of poor snowfall, leading to poor flowering," said Basant Lal Sharma, the Deputy Director of Horticulture, Kullu.

Around 1,00,000 hectares of land is under apple cultivation in the State, indicating that 85 to 90 per cent of farmers depend upon apple cultivation for their bread and butter.

Apples worth around rupees 1,400 crores are exported from Himachal Pradesh to various parts of the country, including overseas.

In the previous year, due to the vagaries of the nature, this figure had dipped down to mere rupees 610 crores.

Nonetheless, it's surely the time for the apple orchard owners and other farmers to heave a sigh of relief.

ANI