Thu, 12 Jun 2025

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 Indian scientists search for the perfect apple

India can't grow enough apples to meet demand but farmers are struggling to raise production.
According to S Chandrashekhar, India's apple trade is facing a shortage due to limited areas with suitable climate conditions. Most of India's apples come from two regions in the north - Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh - where many farms are becoming less productive. To expand apple production into new areas, scientists and farmers are experimenting with low-chill varieties that can produce crops with around 400 hours of temperatures between 0C and 6C. Researchers at the Birsa Agricultural University have tested 18 saplings of three low-chill varieties, but so far only one has produced any fruit. Other experts say that even if apples can be grown in hot areas, their viability as a commercial crop is not proven due to short shelf life and poor taste. However, some are working on climate-resilient apple genotypes that can withstand the existing climate. Boosting India's apple output will require more than just scientific work, according to Chandrashekhar, who says the industry needs investment, replanting of new saplings, and development of the juice and jam business.
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