Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): The Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme is set for major reforms as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed officials to explore Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) payments for apple growers. The decision came during a high-level horticulture department meeting held in Shimla.
The state government aims to strengthen transparency, improve payment systems, and support small apple growers through digital reforms under the Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme.
CM Sukhu Pushes Direct Benefit Transfer for Growers
During the meeting, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu instructed officials to examine the possibility of transferring procurement payments directly into farmers’ bank accounts.
Currently, under the Market Intervention Scheme, authorities compensate growers with materials instead of direct cash payments. However, the government now wants to simplify the process through DBT.
Moreover, the Chief Minister stressed that timely payments will improve the financial condition of small and marginal apple growers. Therefore, officials must prepare a system that ensures quick and transparent transactions.
Apple Production Estimate Ordered Before Season
The government has also started preparations for the upcoming apple season under the Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme 2026. The Chief Minister directed the horticulture department to estimate apple production in advance.
Furthermore, he asked officials to ensure better planning for procurement operations. Early preparation will help authorities manage transportation, storage, and market operations more efficiently.
In addition, the administration aims to reduce inconvenience for orchard owners during the peak harvesting season.
132 Collection Centers Proposed Across Himachal
Under the Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme, the government plans to establish around 132 procurement collection centers this year.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to increase the number of collection centers wherever required. As a result, apple growers from remote areas will get easier access to procurement facilities.
Moreover, the government wants to ensure smooth apple purchasing operations without delays or crowding at collection points.
Digital Procurement Process to Improve Transparency
A major focus of the Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme is the digitalization of the entire procurement system. Chief Minister Sukhu directed departments to make the purchase process fully digital.
Therefore, officials will use technology to improve transparency and reduce procedural delays. Digital systems will also help maintain accurate procurement records and payment tracking.
In addition, the move aims to strengthen trust among apple growers and improve efficiency in government operations.
HPMC Asked to Improve Product Marketing
The Chief Minister also reviewed the performance of HPMC products during the meeting. He directed officials to improve the marketing of apple juice concentrate and other processed products.
Furthermore, he asked authorities to increase the number of auction centers for faster product sales. This step will help strengthen the financial condition of HPMC and improve product reach in the market.
The government believes that better marketing strategies can create stronger demand for Himachal horticulture products across India.
Government Focus on Farmers and Orchard Owners
The Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme 2026 reflects the government’s continued focus on farmers and orchard owners. According to the Chief Minister, the state has introduced several welfare measures for growers during the last three-and-a-half years.
Moreover, the government remains committed to protecting the interests of apple producers, especially small and marginal farmers who depend heavily on horticulture income.
Conclusion
The reforms announced under the Himachal Apple Procurement Scheme aim to modernize apple procurement across Himachal Pradesh. With DBT payments, digital transparency, better collection infrastructure, and stronger product marketing, the government plans to improve support for apple growers.
In Shimla, the meeting highlighted the administration’s strategy to strengthen horticulture operations and ensure better financial stability for orchard owners across the state.
Key Points of the news:
- CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed officials to explore DBT payments for apple growers under the procurement scheme.
- The government plans to digitalize the entire apple procurement process to improve transparency and efficiency.
- Authorities will establish around 132 collection centers for apple procurement during the current season.
- The horticulture department will prepare advance apple production estimates for better planning and management.
- HPMC has been directed to improve marketing of apple juice concentrate and increase auction centers for faster sales.
