The export potential of stone fruits was highlighted during ‘Fruit Horizon 2026’, a two-day horticulture and agri-export conference held at the Central Institute of Sub-Tropical Horticulture in Lucknow.
The event brought together growers, exporters, scientists, policymakers, food processing companies and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to discuss strategies for improving fruit quality, shelf life and exports.
Representing Himachal, Stone Fruit Growers Association president Deepak Singha said the state enjoys a major advantage due to its early harvesting season. “We harvest stone fruits in April and May when no other country does. This window provides Himachal a strong opportunity to export and secure better prices for growers,” he said.
Despite the advantage, growers pointed out that the state lacks adequate infrastructure to support exports. Due to poor post-harvest facilities and the short shelf life of stone fruits, farmers currently struggle to market produce beyond Delhi, let alone overseas destinations.
Joint Director (Horticulture) Kamal Sheel Negi said the issue was discussed extensively during the conference and scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and universities had been asked to develop protocols to enhance the shelf life of stone fruits for distant markets.
“Once export-quality produce becomes available, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority and private exporters will facilitate overseas shipments,” he said.
The push towards stone fruits has gained momentum in recent years as apple cultivation faces increasing stress from erratic weather conditions. Growers, however, stressed that expansion in production alone would not benefit farmers without adequate cold-chain and post-harvest infrastructure.
Singha said the sector requires low-chill and early-harvest cultivars along with proper storage and handling facilities to fully realise its export potential.
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