HPMC’s procurement of apples crosses 55,000 MT under MIS

Despite torrential rains and extensive road damage across Himachal Pradesh, this year’s apple season has registered record arrivals in the markets.

Between 27 June and 15 September 2025, 1,73,74,204 apple boxes (20 kg each) reached mandis, compared to 1,23,18,924 boxes during the same period last year.

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Officials attributed the achievement to the close supervision of the state government and the swift response of the Public Works Department (PWD).

Roads damaged by floods and landslides were restored or temporarily reconnected in record time, ensuring the smooth transportation of apples. Even at the height of disruptions, government machinery worked round the clock to keep supply lines functional.

According to official data, at Shimla and Kinnaur Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs), 1,09,86,863 boxes were sold against 77,40,164 boxes last year. Mandi APMC recorded 16,81,055 boxes, compared to 8,19,893 in 2024. Solan APMC registered sales of 24,90,835 boxes against 22,18,685 last year, while Kullu APMC clocked 20,88,374 boxes compared to 14,03,392 in 2024.

The state government has also extended benefits to orchardists under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). Procurement through the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC), a state government undertaking, has crossed 55,000 metric tonnes, more than double last year’s figure. To facilitate this, 274 collection centres have been set up across apple-growing regions.

However, road blockages continue to restrict truck access to some centres.
Taking prompt action, the Chief Minister directed the deployment of additional trucks for the timely lifting of produce.

HPMC’s fruit processing plants at Parala (Shimla), Parwanoo (Solan), and Jarol (Mandi) are running at full capacity, collectively handling nearly 400 tonnes of apples daily. Despite adverse weather conditions, the government has ensured uninterrupted procurement and processing to support growers.

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to orchardists.

“The state government is fully committed to safeguarding the interests of apple growers. We have introduced the Universal Carton to ensure remunerative prices and end the exploitation of horticulturists,” he said.