High-altitude orchard in Kinnaur redefines Himalayan horticulture

At 3,556 metres above sea level, where snow-capped peaks guard the valleys of Kinnaur, a quiet revolution in apple farming is taking shape. The Apple Day 2.0 celebration at the high-altitude demonstration orchard in Mulling turned into a living showcase of innovation, resilience and collaboration, proving that even in the harshest terrains, sustainable agriculture can flourish.

Jointly organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kinnaur, and the Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station (RHRTS), Sharbo, of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, the event brought together over 100 participants — apple growers, local representatives, horticulture officials and students.

The orchard, established in 2021 under the Tribal Sub-Plan Project, now thrives with 10 premium apple varieties, including Super Chief, Scarlet Spur, Red Velox, Oregon Spur II and Gala Val. It stands as a symbol of how science-driven cultivation can transform the livelihoods of farmers in dry temperate zones.

The event was inaugurated by Padma Dorje, BDC Member, Pooh Block, who lauded KVK and RHRTS for empowering tribal farmers through advanced horticultural techniques. Demonstrations led by Dr Arun Kumar, fruit scientist and event coordinator, highlighted field innovations tailored for high-altitude challenges — from natural farming methods to high-density planting that maximises yield while conserving resources.

Dr Pramod Sharma, Associate Director (Research) and Head of KVK Kinnaur, emphasized nature-based solutions, crop diversification, and multi-layer farming as the key to long-term sustainability. “Our focus,” he said, “is not just productivity, but resilience — ensuring that our farmers can adapt and thrive amid climate shifts.”

Farmers also learned about government schemes, crop insurance, and biological pest management, shared by Dev Raj Kaith (SMS Horticulture), while Jai Kumar (ATMA) spotlighted the success of the Natural Farming Cluster Initiative, already uniting over 1,000 farmers across six villages.

Speakers like Dr Deepika Negi, Ashish Gupta and Ajay Tannikulam enriched the dialogue with insights into high-value crops, natural certification systems and market linkages for farmer prosperity.

As the event closed, progressive farmers shared inspiring stories of transformation, and Padma Dorje urged all to embrace climate-resilient, water-efficient, and eco-friendly practices.

In Mulling’s thin air, where few believed apples could thrive, the spirit of Apple Day 2.0 made one thing clear, the future of Himalayan farming is not only alive, it’s blossoming.