Apple production estimate for 2026 season
The Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Department has projected an apple production of approximately 2.5 crore boxes for the current season, based on initial estimates. The department plans to revise these figures at the end of June after a fresh assessment of the crop.
District-wise contribution
Shimla district is expected to lead with the highest share of about 1.40 crore boxes, followed by Kullu with 38 lakh boxes, Kinnaur with 30 lakh boxes, and Mandi with 22 lakh boxes. Apple cultivation has expanded across all districts of the state, though the lowest production is anticipated from Hamirpur and Una districts.
Comparison with last year
In the previous year, Himachal Pradesh produced about 6.46 lakh metric tonnes of apples, equivalent to around 3.23 crore standard 20-kg boxes.
Growers express skepticism
Despite the department's optimistic projections, many growers believe the estimate is on the higher side. They claim the crop is poor in low-altitude orchards and below average in mid-altitude areas, with only high-elevation orchards showing a healthy fruit load. Several growers estimate total production may remain between one and 1.5 crore boxes this season.
