Shimla, September 15: The apple industry in Himachal Pradesh is set to get a significant boost in 2024 due to the introduction of the Universal Carton system. This innovative packaging initiative by the state government has transformed the way apples are packaged, transported and marketed, reducing losses and increasing profits for orchardists across the state.
For many years, apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have faced challenges due to inadequate packaging, which often resulted in spoiled produce and lower prices. Traditional cartons did not have the strength to keep apples safe during transportation, leading to a drop in their market value. In response, the Himachal Pradesh government introduced the Universal Carton, a solution designed to preserve the quality of apples while increasing their competitiveness in the market.
Better packaging, better prices
The Universal Carton was specially developed with multi-layered trays, reinforced burst strength and improved compression resistance. These features ensure that the apples are well protected during the entire journey from orchards to markets, reducing the risk of damage. This not only protects the quality of the fruits but also allows growers to present their produce in immaculate condition, which ultimately fetches them better prices.
The new packaging system also empowers growers by giving them more control over the sales process. Orchardists can now fix their own prices, reducing their dependence on middlemen and traders, who often took advantage of the situation by buying apples at low rates. With the Universal Carton, growers have gained more financial freedom and more profits for their crops.
Comprehensive government support
The state government has taken several steps to ensure the successful implementation of the Universal Carton reform. Local carton manufacturing units have been set up, creating jobs and ensuring that cartons are readily available to apple growers in every region. Additionally, the government has organised training programmes to help orchardists adapt to the new system, ensuring a smooth transition from traditional packaging methods.
“The universal carton reform is a milestone for Himachal’s apple industry. It addresses a long-standing problem and provides orchardists with the necessary tools to get better value for their produce,” said a senior government official. “This initiative not only benefits growers, but also strengthens the horticulture sector of the entire state.”
A huge success in Himachal Pradesh, the universal carton has been widely adopted, with over 1.12 crore cartons being used to transport apples to markets across the country. Shimla and Kinnaur have emerged as the leading districts with 71.49 lakh cartons. Other districts including Solan, Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti have also seen significant use of the new packaging system, contributing 19 lakh 47 thousand 511 and 13 lakh 16 thousand 88 cartons respectively. Smaller districts like Kangra, Sirmaur, Una, Bilaspur and Hamirpur have also joined this reform, using thousands of universal cartons to protect their apple crop. Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) has played a vital role by contributing 50,000 cartons to support apple growers.
Impact on horticulture sector
The success of the universal carton reform is not limited to the apple industry alone. The initiative is expected to have a wide impact, encouraging similar improvements in packaging and marketing strategies in other horticulture areas of the state. By enhancing packaging methods, the government aims to improve the overall quality and marketability of Himachal’s horticulture produce, which will further boost economic development in the region.
With its potential to reduce losses and increase profits of orchardists, the Universal Carton system has emerged as a game-changer for the apple industry in Himachal Pradesh. As the reform gains momentum, it is set to have a lasting impact on the state’s economy and the livelihood of orchardists.
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