Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district got a first-hand look at the future of horticulture as Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kinnaur and the Regional Horticultural Research and Training Centre, Sharbo, jointly hosted Apple Day to promote high-density planting (HDP) and sustainable farming practices in the region.

The event, which drew over 100 orchardists, horticulture experts, and government officials, served as a platform for farmers to learn about advanced apple cultivation techniques and explore new high-density varieties tailored for Kinnaur’s dry temperate climate. Inaugurating the program, Om Prakash Yadav, Assistant Commissioner to the DC, Kinnaur, underscored the importance of blending traditional farming wisdom with modern technology to boost productivity and rural incomes. High-density planting, he noted, is a key pathway for transforming the apple economy of the district.

Participants observed a live demonstration of 15 advanced apple varieties grown under HDP systems and visited an exhibition featuring 41 apple varieties suitable for high-altitude cultivation. These hands-on sessions allowed farmers to evaluate new techniques and varieties, with the aim of encouraging wider adoption in the coming seasons.

Dr. Pramod Sharma, Associate Director and Head of KVK Kinnaur, emphasized the role of natural farming and crop diversification in creating long-term resilience for orchardists. He called HDP-based fruit farming a “game changer” for the region’s unique ecosystem. Dr. Deepika Negi, Scientist (Fruit Science), presented detailed insights on advanced production technologies for temperate fruits, while District Agriculture Officer Rakesh Dhiman briefed attendees on government schemes and subsidies available to apple growers.

Community leaders also voiced their support. Lalita Pancharas, Chairperson of BDC Kalpa, praised KVK Kinnaur for empowering farmers through scientific training and urged participants to adopt the techniques demonstrated at the event. Progressive farmers shared their own success stories, including Ram Sain Negi of Lippa village, who spoke about the benefits of natural farming, and Karma Dachum of Asrang village, who presented an innovative rodent-control method using G.I. sheets that attracted strong interest from the audience.

Closing the event, Dr. Arun Kumar, Training Coordinator, urged farmers to select varieties best suited to their microclimates and adopt scientific orchard management practices to improve both yields and fruit quality.

With strong farmer participation and expert-led demonstrations, the Apple Day event marked a significant step in advancing horticultural innovation in Kinnaur and setting the stage for a more productive, sustainable apple industry in Himachal Pradesh.