Himachal Pradesh Unveils Pangi Apples Brand to Promote Organic Farming

Shimla, October 24 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Sukhu of Himachal Pradesh launched the ‘Pangi Apples’ brand on Saturday, aimed at promoting organic farming in the region. This initiative is part of the state government’s efforts to enhance the identity of locally produced apples from Pangi, which has been designated as the first organic farming sub-division in the state.

Sukhu highlighted that this move would strengthen the local economy and provide economic opportunities to the remote tribal area, bringing it in line with other parts of the state in terms of living standards. In Chamba district’s Pangi, apple cultivation spans approximately 370 hectares, featuring over 104,000 apple trees. This season, an expected yield of around 35,000 boxes, equating to approximately 550 metric tons, is anticipated.

Historically, apples from Pangi have been marketed under the names ‘Kullu apples’ or ‘Kinnaur apples,’ limiting the recognition of Pangi’s local products. The picturesque Pangi Valley is primarily inhabited by the Gaddi community, known for livestock rearing, alongside the cultivation of barley, potatoes, peas, seasonal vegetables, and exotic flowers.

To support this initiative, special ‘Pangi Apples’ cartons with capacities of 20 kg and 10 kg have been introduced, available to farmers at a 50% subsidy. Sukhu emphasized that this effort would provide Pangi apples with a unique identity, promote the region’s organic agricultural products, and enhance their market presence.

This initiative aligns with the state government’s vision to develop Pangi as its first chemical-free sub-district under organic farming. It represents a significant step towards strengthening the livelihoods of approximately 6,300 farming families, fostering local entrepreneurship, and ensuring greater economic opportunities for the residents of this remote tribal area.

Pangi, once referred to as Himachal Pradesh’s ‘black water’ due to its treacherous roads and inaccessible villages, has faced challenges in connectivity. The valley remains cut off from the world for over six months a year due to heavy snowfall, making it difficult for government officials to be posted there.

Health officials report that their staff must often trek for two to three days on foot to reach the most remote villages for vaccination programs. The district’s climate is harsh, with much of its land classified as a cold desert, where winter temperatures can plummet below minus 20 degrees Celsius.