Enhancing profits for Himachal Pradesh growers: Exploring kiwifruit production technologies

Abstract

Kiwifruit cultivation has great potential in Himachal Pradesh due to its suitable agro-climatic conditions. With apple production on the decline, kiwifruit offers a promising alternative for Himachal Pradesh farmers. The state has already started promoting kiwifruit cultivation in recent years, and the crop has shown good performance in some regions. In Himachal Pradesh, the mid-hills and valleys of Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, Mandi and Kullu districts are ideally suited for kiwifruit cultivation. The state government has also been promoting kiwifruit cultivation through various schemes and subsidies. The Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Society (HPHDS) provides technical and financial assistance to farmers for setting up kiwifruit orchards and other horticultural activities. With proper management and support, the scope of kiwifruit cultivation can be further expanded to other districts like Chamba, Bilaspur and Kangra, leading to increased income for farmers and boosting the state’s economy. It is believed that kiwifruit cultivation is a
good initiative towards crop diversification and also profitable for the farmers.