The Hindu : Other States / Himachal Pradesh News : From apple to cherry farming

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Jun 22, 2004

Other States

Other States - Himachal Pradesh

From apple to cherry farming

SHIMLA, JUNE 21. Famous as the apple growing state, Himachal Pradesh is now turning towards cherry farming. After Jammu and Kashmir, it is now Himachal Pradesh that is ready to register its identity as the second largest cherry producing state in the country.

The new fruit has a good scope as against the apple cultivation, which is becoming less profitable due to increasing production cost. Also, cherry cultivation would add to the income of the farmers in the state.

``It cannot be an alternative to apple, for September is the month for apples. But, we will have a supplementary income in May-June. So, we will have money two times. It will add to our total income for the year,'' said Ajay Kainthala, a cherry farmer. The tourists to the State are ready to purchase the fresh fruit as they find it cheaper in the state.

"This cherry is more fresh. When, it is marketed from here, it takes time to reach the markets. So, it does not remain that fresh. Also, it is cheap. Quality is good and quantity is more,'' said a tourist, from Madhya Pradesh. The cultivators are finding cherry farming a good alternative as the returns are good and it adds to their income.

``It can be a good alternative for our farmers and there is a scope in it. Its season comes before apples and also it is a good cash crop. Even the returns are good,'' said Rajinder Chauhan, a cherry farmer.

Cherry farming in Himachal Pradesh has provided employment to 11 lakh people of the state.

-- ANI

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