Gurugram university attempts to grow apple & plum in south Haryana

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, SGT University, Gurugram, has attempted to grow low-chilling varieties of apple, pear, peach and plum in south Haryana by planting the saplings of these fruits. Traditionally, this region is considered unsuitable for such fruit crops. However, through the development of selected varieties and advanced agricultural technologies, agro-scientists of the university are hoping to cultivate high-value fruits.

Dr SS Sindhu, former Chairman, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi; and Dr RK Roy, former Head, Botanical Garden and Floriculture, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, said, if successful, this initiative would not only enhance farmers’ income but also diversify the region’s agriculture.

Dr Pooja Pant, dean, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, SGT University, said the initiative would not only enable university’s scientists, researchers and students to study and develop new varieties and agri-technologies specific to the region but would also facilitate knowledge-sharing with farmers, helping increase their income.