Himachal Pradesh, a key hub for India's apple cultivation, is bracing for a substantial 40% drop in apple production in 2026. Unpredictable weather conditions, including insufficient winter snowfall, unseasonal spring rains, frequent hailstorms, and fluctuating temperatures, are being blamed for the sharp decline.
State horticulture officials project the apple output will fall to approximately 4.36 lakh metric tonnes (about 2.15 crore boxes) in 2026, a significant reduction from 6.99 lakh metric tonnes recorded in 2025. This 2.63 lakh metric tonne decrease is expected to shrink the state's estimated Rs 5,000-crore apple economy proportionally, jeopardizing the livelihoods of nearly 2.5 lakh farming families.
Climate Crisis Hits Apple Growers
Orchardists are reporting that the adverse weather has exacerbated existing challenges, leading to higher production costs and reduced yields. Input costs for medicines and machinery have also climbed, adding to the financial burden on farmers.
"The apple production this year has declined due to unfavourable weather conditions as neither snow nor rains came on time. Due to a lack of irrigation facilities, we are dependent on the weather," stated Balwant Justa, a local orchardist.
Another grower, Virender Singh, highlighted the impact of rising temperatures, inadequate chilling hours crucial for apple development, and hailstorms that have damaged crops. Harish Chauhan, president of the Fruit Vegetable Flower Growers Association, explained that traditional apple varieties require 1,200-1,600 chilling hours below 7 degrees Celsius, while early varieties need around 600 hours. These essential chilling hours have been significantly reduced by warmer temperatures.
Call for Government Intervention
In response to the escalating crisis, farmers have appealed to the government for stronger irrigation infrastructure and improved awareness campaigns for crop insurance schemes. These measures, they argue, are vital to help mitigate the substantial financial losses incurred due to climate-induced crop failures.
The impact of climate change extends beyond apples. Officials also anticipate a slight decline in stone fruit production, including apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums, citing global warming and rising temperatures as contributing factors.