SHIMLA: In a major relief to thousands of apple growers across Himachal Pradesh, the state government has decided to continue procuring Grade-C apples at the fixed rate of ₹12 per kg this year. Clearing the air on recent speculation, the government clarified that no cap will be placed on the total quantity of apples purchased from individual farmers.
The decision addresses growing concerns among growers who feared the state might limit the number of apple bags purchased per farmer, leaving them with surplus produce.
Clarifying the state’s stance, Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi stated that while a price hike is not feasible given Himachal Pradesh’s current financial situation, the government has no intention to restrict procurement quantities. Farmers will be able to sell their entire Grade-C yield at designated government centers at the set rate.
Digital Registration and Transparency
To bring transparency and streamline operations, the entire procurement process under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is being digitized. Growers must register on the official MIS digital platform by uploading their bank details and land records (Jamabandi).
According to the Horticulture Minister, requiring land records will allow authorities to monitor the process closely and estimate potential Grade-C apple production for each orchard. This step aims to verify genuine farmers and curb potential irregularities in procurement.
Expanded Infrastructure and Cluster Procurement
To ensure smooth ground-level operations, Himfed has been brought back into the procurement framework alongside HPMC to manage various centers. Himfed was not part of the process last year. Instead of opening numerous small centers, the government will establish cluster-based procurement centers to improve management and oversight.
Action Against Substandard Pesticides
Addressing concerns over the rapid spread of Alternaria disease in state orchards, the government has taken note of farmers’ allegations regarding poor-quality and fake pesticides. The Horticulture Department has deployed field teams to collect pesticide samples from markets and orchards for laboratory testing. The government warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone selling counterfeit pesticides.
