Himachal Pradesh Farmers Thrive with Premium Plum Cultivation

Himachal Pradesh's Plum Farmers Experience New Opportunities

Munish Sood
Mandi

A significant advancement for fruit producers in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, has enabled high-quality plums from the Balh and Sundernagar regions to enter markets in Maharashtra, creating fresh income opportunities and market access for local farmers.

This success stems from the HP Shiva Project, which aims to enhance subtropical horticulture, irrigation, and value addition in the state's lower-altitude areas. The initiative has empowered farmers to adopt contemporary horticultural techniques, elevate fruit quality, and connect with broader markets beyond Himachal Pradesh.

Farmers from the Brikhmani cluster in Balh and the Khagraon cluster in Sundernagar have reported promising returns this season, with plum prices fluctuating between ₹150 and ₹230 per kilogram. The fruit has garnered strong demand in wholesale markets like Bhuntar and Kullu, attributed to its quality and grading standards.

Sanjay Kumar, a farmer from Khagraon, shared that he established plum orchards under the project in 2022. This cluster includes 36 farmers cultivating plums across nearly 11.5 hectares. As the orchards transition into commercial production, growers are experiencing substantial returns. Kumar alone has earned close to ₹2 lakh from plum sales this season, while the cluster's total production has generated approximately ₹3 lakh to date.

The farmers are growing varieties such as Black Amber and Santa Rosa, which have received positive market feedback. Enhanced productivity and fruit quality have been supported by technical assistance, quality planting materials, irrigation facilities, and ongoing guidance from horticulture specialists.

To improve market access, the Horticulture Department has facilitated connections with premium buyers. A trial shipment of plums has recently been sent to Maharashtra via agricultural supply company GO4FRESH, marking the first shipment from these clusters.

Officials are optimistic that this success highlights the increasing potential of subtropical fruit cultivation in the lower hill regions of Himachal Pradesh. With enhanced market connectivity and value realization, plum farming is becoming a lucrative alternative for farmers aiming to diversify their income and bolster rural livelihoods.