In the apple orchards of Himachal Pradesh, trees heavy with bright red fruit paint a picture of prosperity. But behind the scenic beauty, apple growers say they are facing mounting economic pressure.

Orchardists across the state are grappling with sharply rising input costs, declining market prices, and what they describe as unfavourable policy decisions. Many warn that these challenges are threatening their livelihoods and the sustainability of apple farming in the hill state.

With the Union Budget around the corner, growers are hoping for major relief measures. Key demands include higher import duties on foreign apples, the introduction of a minimum support price (MSP) for apples, and subsidies on fertilisers and pesticides to offset escalating production costs.

Farmers argue that cheaper imported apples have flooded domestic markets, making it highly difficult for local produce to remain competitive. They say that unless import duties are raised, Indian apple growers will continue to suffer losses.

Orchardists also point to the steady rise in costs of fertilisers, pesticides, packaging materials, and transportation, adding that without government intervention, apple cultivation may become economically unviable for small and marginal farmers.

According to growers’ associations, the horticulture sector contributes nearly ₹5,000 crore to Himachal Pradesh’s economy and provides employment to around 15 lakh people, both directly and indirectly.

Apple farmers warn that if their concerns are not addressed in the upcoming Union Budget, thousands of families dependent on horticulture could face an uncertain future.