Apple growers unite Kalpa event focuses on new farming practices

In a bid to equip horticulturists with advanced farm practices and introduce new apple varieties suited to high-density planting in dry temperate regions, an Apple Day was organised at Kalpa. The event was jointly hosted by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kinnaur and the Regional Horticultural Research and Training Centre, Sharbo of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni.

The programme was inaugurated by Om Prakash Yadav, Assistant Commissioner, who stressed the importance of blending traditional wisdom with modern technology to boost agriculture and horticulture. He described high-density planting as a promising opportunity to enhance rural livelihoods.

A live demonstration of 15 advanced apple varieties cultivated under the high-density planting system was held, alongside an exhibition of 41 apple varieties suitable for high-altitude farming. These practical sessions allowed farmers to observe modern production techniques firsthand and encouraged wider adoption in the region.

Dr Pramod Sharma, Associate Director & Head, KVK Kinnaur, underlined the importance of natural farming, crop diversification and HDP-based fruit production in Kinnaur’s dry temperate ecosystem. Dr Deepika Negi, Scientist (Fruit Science), detailed advanced technologies for temperate fruit cultivation, while Rakesh Dhiman, District Agriculture Officer, briefed farmers on government schemes and subsidies available for orchardists.

Lalita Pancharas, Chairperson, BDC Kalpa, lauded the KVK for its initiative and encouraged farmers to adopt scientific practices, calling such events valuable platforms for rural communities. Progressive farmers also shared their experiences: Ram Sain Negi of Lippa spoke about the benefits of natural farming, while Karma Dachum of Asrang demonstrated an innovative method using galvanised iron sheets to protect apple trees from rodents, which drew significant interest from participants.

In his concluding remarks, Dr Arun Kumar, Training Coordinator, emphasised the potential of new apple varieties and scientific techniques. He urged farmers to adopt region-suitable cultivars and modern practices to improve both productivity and fruit quality.

The event saw the participation of over 100 orchardists, along with officials from the Horticulture and Agriculture Departments and the progeny-cum-demonstration orchard, Kilba.