Post-harvest handling of apples in Himachal Pradesh: Problems and prospects

The profitability of this crop depends upon the post-harvest management of this crop. The present study was an attempt in this direction. The data for the study pertains to the year 2013–14 and were collected through personal interview method. It was observed that the marketing of apple produce is done in both organized and un-organized sector. The growers dispose of their produce mainly through the channel via Grower → Pre-harvest contractor → Commission agent → Wholesaler → Retailer → consumer. It was observed that 70 percent produce is transported and sold in largest fruit and vegetable market in Delhi. The produce was transported by unrefrigerated trucks. The market price received by the growers varies widely in different markets. There is only a marginal increase in price of apple under the market intervention scheme in recent years. It was observed that the apple orchards were 30–35 years old, which is the cause of low productivity. Due to high cost of apple grading machines, the small orchard growers cannot afford to use it. There is poor integration of domestic market with international market. The price information via market intelligence and electronic media is lacking. It is, therefore, suggested that minimum support price for the crop should be introduced by the Government. Unlicensed growers should be checked. The Government should introduce precooling facilities at farm level and built ropeways for transportation. Women in the state should be trained to work in post-harvest handling and processing the produce of apple crop.