Himachal’s horticulture success story gains global recognition

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project, initially on the verge of failure, is now being showcased by the World Bank as a model project globally. Launched in 2016 with a budget of nearly Rs 1,100 crore, the project aimed to enhance the production and marketing of temperate fruits, primarily apples.

Interestingly, the World Bank had considered shutting down the project in 2019 due to its slow progress and lack of visible outcomes. “It seemed to be going nowhere, and we had almost decided to discontinue it,” said World Bank team leader Bekzod Shamshiev.

However, a remarkable turnaround by the Himachal Government and implementing agencies has transformed the project into a global success story.
Horticulture Secretary C. Paulrasu highlighted the key achievements of the project, which include: Importing over 30 lakh high-quality plants and rootstocks of various fruit varieties. Introducing 47 apple varieties, with the imported planting material now being multiplied locally and provided to growers at affordable rates. Additionally, the project has improved market infrastructure for apple growers.

HPMC Managing Director Sudesh Mokhta shared that: New Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities have been constructed, and existing ones have been upgraded. A state-of-the-art fruit processing unit has been established at Parala. New market yards and irrigation facilities have been created to support growers.

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While apple production and productivity in Himachal have declined over the past few years, Paulrasu explained that the project’s impact would become evident in the next 4–5 years as new plantations reach their full production capacity. This is expected to significantly boost apple yield and quality in the state.