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The Orchard of the Himalayas: Tapri Village’s Apple Economy

Imagine a place where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the hills are painted with hues of red and green. This is Tapri Village, a hidden gem nestled in the serene Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh. But Tapri is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a bustling hub of economic activity, thanks to its thriving apple orchards.

The Heartbeat of Tapri: Apple Farming

In Tapri, apple farming is more than just a means to earn a living; it’s a way of life, a tradition passed down through generations. The villagers have seen their hard work bear fruit, quite literally, with a record-breaking yield of 83,324 metric tonnes of apples in the 2022-23 season. The establishment of an APMC mandi has been a game-changer, providing a platform for the farmers to market and sell their produce effectively.

The Pride of Kinnaur: The Kinnauri Apple

Kinnauri apples are a class apart. Grown at high altitudes, these apples are loved for their natural sweetness, vibrant colour, and juicy texture. They have won hearts not just in India, but across the globe, finding their way into corporate offices, luxury hotels, and upscale malls. The unique taste and quality of Kinnauri apples have made them a hot favourite in markets near and far.

A Fruitful Future: The Market Potential

The demand for Kinnauri apples goes beyond the Indian subcontinent. With an Agri-export zone established in Himachal Pradesh, these apples are now reaching neighbouring countries, West Asia, and Southeast Asian countries. The Delicious variety, in particular, is a hit in markets like Delhi and Chandigarh, as well as in Punjab and Haryana, fetching attractive prices.

The Sweet Spot of Apple Farming: Profitability and Varieties

Apple farming in Kinnaur is a profitable venture. High-density orchards have been established to boost productivity. The landscape is dominated by a variety of apples – Royal, Golden, Red Golden, Red Delicious, and Scarlet Spur. The Royal Delicious, making up 90% of the apple varieties grown, is the undisputed king.

Battling the Blight: Disease and Prevention

Like any farming community, apple growers in Kinnaur face threats from diseases like white root rot, crown rot, and crown gall. But they are not the ones to back down. Armed with resistant plant varieties and preventive measures like the destruction of infected plant parts, they are ready to take on these challenges.

Tradition Meets Innovation: Cultivation Techniques

In Tapri, the traditional square or hexagonal system of planting goes hand in hand with the contour method used on slopes. The introduction of new apple cultivars and clonal rootstocks is a testament to the villagers’ embrace of innovation.

Beyond Apples: Diversifying Income

While apples are the mainstay, the villagers also rely on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) like Chilgoza, Kalajeera, and Dhoop for additional income and employment. These products significantly contribute to the total farm income and provide employment to households.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Overcoming Obstacles

The path to success is not without its hurdles. The apple farmers face challenges like a shortage of technical labour, lack of desired fertilizers, financial issues, and irrigation problems. But with community support and government assistance, they are overcoming these obstacles one by one.

Innovation in the Orchards: Drones and By-Products

The villagers are not just keeping up with the times; they are staying ahead. The introduction of drones for transporting apples is a ground-breaking move that has reduced labour costs and increased efficiency. The apple by-products industry is also booming, with items like apple cider vinegar and dried apple slices seeing a rise in demand.

Conclusion

Tapri Village’s apple economy is a testament to the resilience and innovation of its people. As they continue to adapt and evolve, the future looks as promising as the blossoming apple orchards that define this beautiful region. Their story is a reminder that with hard work, innovation, and a sense of community, one can overcome challenges and thrive.

References

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By Mr. Bose

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