Category: News

Himachal Pradesh’s apple harvest has fallen by nearly 50% this year, dealing a heavy blow to the state’s apple growers and traders. Around 1.70 crore boxes of apples have been produced this season, compared with about 3.50 crore boxes last year — a drop of roughly 1.80 crore boxes.

The fall in production could cost the state’s apple economy up to ₹2,000 crore, according to early estimates reported on 4 November 2026.

What happened

Unfavourable weather is being blamed for the sharp drop in production. Apple orchards across the state, especially in Shimla district, produced far fewer apples than last year. About 1.40 crore boxes have reached the markets so far, and traders in Shimla report that their sales are down by 30% to 35%.

Apple is the backbone of Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture economy. The state is one of India’s largest apple producers, and the crop supports lakhs of growers, traders, transporters, packers and labourers. A 50% fall in production affects the entire chain — from the orchard to the mandi to the truck driver.

What it means for growers

  • Lower income: With half the crop gone, most growers will earn far less this year, even if prices are higher.
  • Higher prices for buyers: Less supply usually means higher prices in the market. Consumers may pay more for Himachali apples this season.
  • Less work for traders and transporters: With fewer boxes to move, traders, packers and truck operators in Shimla and other apple belts will also earn less.
  • More pressure on small growers: Small and marginal growers, who depend on the apple crop for most of their annual income, will feel the loss the most.

What happens next

Growers and traders are watching the weather closely. The state has had a dry spell in early November, and rain and snow are expected in the higher reaches around 10–11 November. While that will not bring this year’s crop back, it matters for the health of the orchards and for next year’s flowering.

The state government has not yet announced any relief package for apple growers for this season. Growers’ associations have in the past asked for support such as compensation for crop loss, help with cold storage, and better market access. Any announcement on relief will be reported here when it is made.

For now, the message from the orchards is clear: 2026 has been one of the worst apple seasons in recent years, and the losses will be felt across Himachal Pradesh’s hill economy.

Source: thenewshimachal.com report on the Himachal apple harvest, 4 November 2026. Figures are early estimates and may be revised as the season ends.

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