Kullu students combine agriculture & AI to revolutionise apple harvesting

In a striking demonstration of how rural innovation can meet cutting-edge technology, two students from Government High School Baragran Bihal, Kullu, have developed ‘Appy’, a smart apple-plucking device that integrates artificial intelligence and digital technology, winning top honours at the 53rd State-Level Children’s Science Exhibition.

The event, hosted by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Solan, under the inspiring theme ‘STEM for Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, with the sub-theme ‘Emerging Technology’, witnessed an impressive showcase of young scientific talent. Among the many exhibits, ‘Appy’ emerged as the undisputed centre

of attention.

Designed by students Diksha and Pushpanjay, Appy is far more than a simple farming tool. This innovative model demonstrates how emerging technologies can be harnessed to solve real-life agricultural challenges. By integrating AI and digital systems, the device can intelligently identify ripe apples and pluck them efficiently, potentially saving countless hours of manual labor for apple farmers.

The model beautifully captures the vision of a self-reliant India, combining creativity, technical knowledge, and practical social utility in one compact design.

The project captivated the exhibition’s judges and visitors alike with its originality and technical sophistication. What stood out most was not just the innovation itself but its potential to make a meaningful impact on everyday life in farming communities across the region, for which it won the first prize in its category.

School Headmaster Prem Pal expressed immense pride in the achievement. He said, “Appy is not merely a scientific model. It is a reflection of our students’ imagination, confidence and commitment to nation-building through

innovation.”

He extended heartfelt congratulations to guide teacher Pankaj Verma, along with supporting team members Mamta Thakur and Yamuna Thakur, for their dedicated mentorship. He also applauded the students for their hard work, scientific temperament and forward-thinking approach.

With this outstanding accomplishment, the team has earned the prestigious honour of representing Himachal Pradesh at the national level. As they prepare to showcase Appy on a bigger stage, they carry forward the spirit of innovation, bringing pride not only to their school and state but to the nation as a whole.

For a state where apple farming is the backbone of the rural economy, innovations like Appy represent a promising glimpse into a future where technology works hand-in-hand with traditional agriculture to build a developed and self-reliant India.