Monsoon Challenges Test Himachal’s Apple Supply Chain

The onset of the monsoon season has created hurdles for apple growers in Himachal Pradesh. Heavy rains have damaged crops and disrupted transportation routes in the Kullu and Mandi regions. However, robust road infrastructure, supported by initiatives like PMGSY, is helping to mitigate the impact. With a vast network of roads connecting villages to national highways, and with a rapid road blockage clearance system in place, farmers have options for getting their produce to market. Furthermore, cold storage availability offers additional support. The transition to smaller transport vehicles and the higher MIP for apples provide further assistance to the apple growers. The stone fruit season is concluding, and focus is shifting to the early varieties of apples.