Needed: tech pill for Himachal apple

Incidentally, the industry has seen a growth from a mere 400 hectares during the 1950s to 91,840 hectares with an annual production of over 60,000 metric tonnes over the past five years. However, while the average production of apple is four to five tonnes per hectare in the state, the global average stands at 12 to 15 tonnes per hectare.

The growing challenges that face the industry, however, have prompted scientists from the Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni to bail out apple growers by providing them with improved varieties of apples that are suitable for cultivation in mid hill zones8212;Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kinnaur, Chamba and parts of Solan and Sirmour districts8212;where most of the orchards are located.

8220;After noticing the problem of poor quality fruits and its production, the scientists have introduced spur type varieties for the mid hills zones and these varieties have started delivering the desired results,8221; said vice chancellor K R Dhiman.

Dhiman said the only way to get out of the present crisis is to grow several varieties of apples and to avoid mono culture. 8220;During the recent survey, scientists have identified diseases in almost all orchards in the region. To get rid of these problems and produce quality product that would fetch good price, we need to replace old orchards and plant new improved varieties,8221; he said.

The scientists were also of the view that apple growers should undergo training in technical advances that are followed in major apple producing countries. 8220;Nutrition is poor and post harvest handling is an area where one needs to be very careful. We are working with them to help them understand how to get rid of pests and maintain quality,8221; said Dhiman.

However, one of the leading growers of Kotgarh area, Hardyal Chauhan, held officials of the extension department of Parmar University and the Department of Horticulture for poor quality production. He said despite repeated requests from growers to provide quality planting materials, these officials always chose to impose their decision on them instead of letting them know about the latest technology.