Dehradun: To increase apple production and give a new push to horticulture in Uttarakhand, the state government has started releasing financial assistance under the Apple Mission. The initiative focuses on promoting high-density apple plantation models and providing large-scale subsidies to farmers for developing new orchards.
Under the scheme, the government aims to expand apple cultivation areas, increase productivity, and strengthen the income opportunities of farmers across apple-growing districts.
₹17.52 Crore First Instalment Released for Apple Mission
Under the Apple Mission, the first instalment of ₹17.52 crore has been released to districts for promoting high-density apple orchards.
Key targets under the initiative include:
- Development of 500 hectares of new apple orchards during 2026-27.
- Expansion of apple cultivation under modern plantation techniques.
- Increased production through improved varieties and scientific horticulture practices.
The government has approved a total budget of ₹34 crore for the scheme, under which farmers will receive 80% subsidy support for establishing high-density apple orchards.
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Uttarakhand Aims to Add 5,000 Hectares of Apple Orchards by 2030
The state government has set an ambitious target to develop an additional 5,000 hectares of apple orchards by 2030.
Currently, Uttarakhand has around:
- 12,000 hectares under apple cultivation.
- Annual apple production of approximately 44,000 metric tonnes.
Through the Apple Mission, the government aims to increase both the area under cultivation and overall apple output in the coming years.
High-Density Apple Farming Model to Improve Productivity
The Apple Mission focuses on adopting a high-density horticulture model, which allows farmers to achieve higher production from smaller land areas.
Under this model, farmers are being encouraged to plant improved apple varieties, including:
- King Rot
- Mema Master
- Zed Wain
- Hypek
These varieties are expected to start commercial production within three to four years after plantation.
Cluster-Based Apple Development to Strengthen Marketing
The state government is developing apple orchards under a cluster-based approach.
Officials said that developing orchards in clusters will help in:
- Better production planning.
- Improved marketing facilities.
- Easier transportation and supply management.
- Strengthening market linkages for farmers.
This approach is expected to create a more organised apple production ecosystem in Uttarakhand.
Government Focuses on Farmer Income and Horticulture Growth
The Apple Mission is part of Uttarakhand’s broader strategy to strengthen horticulture and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to farmers.
By promoting modern orchard techniques, improved varieties, and financial assistance, the initiative aims to:
- Increase apple productivity.
- Encourage youth participation in horticulture.
- Improve farmer earnings.
- Expand Uttarakhand’s position in apple production.
Commercial Apple Production Expected Within Three Years
According to Ratan Kumar, In-charge Additional Director of the Horticulture Department, the scheme is designed to develop orchards in limited areas using advanced plantation methods.
He said that the newly planted apple varieties under the mission are expected to begin commercial production within three to four years, helping farmers achieve better returns from their orchards.
The initiative marks a major step towards modernising apple cultivation and strengthening Uttarakhand’s horticulture sector.
