Adopt climate-resilient tech, fruit growers told

The Department of Horticulture has urged fruit growers to adopt climate-resilient technologies and scientific methods to avoid losses.

The department, in view of erratic weather over the past few years, wants the fruit growers to gradually move towards low-chill apple and other fruit varieties, which have performed well under fluctuating weather conditions. Besides, the department also wants the growers to diversify into super fruits like blueberry, avocado and dragon fruit, wherever possible.

“Unpredictable weather conditions are adversely impacting the production, quality and productivity of horticultural crops. The Department of Horticulture, in collaboration with scientists and experts, is making continuous efforts to promote climate-resilient technologies and awareness among farmers,” says Vinay Singh, Director of Horticulture.

He says that it had become crucial for farmers to participate positively and proactively in these initiatives so that the benefits of scientific efforts reach the grass-roots level. “This will help make the state’s horticulture more resilient to future climatic challenges,” he adds.

This year, the state had experienced no snowfall in January and February but received snowfall in March and April. And then, continuous rainfall from May to September affected horticultural activities across the region. And now, there’s early-October snowfall in higher elevations and a significant dip in temperatures. Such significant changes in the weather pattern are being seen as the result of the global climate change.

The Director urges farmers and horticulturists to contact their nearest Horticulture Extension Officer, Horticulture Development Officer, Subject Matter Specialist or the Deputy Director, Horticulture, for technical guidance and solutions related to climate-related problems.