Himachal Pradesh’s apple harvest is estimated at 1.70 crore boxes this season, compared with 3.50 crore boxes last year, a decline of nearly 1.80 crore boxes attributed to unfavourable weather conditions.

Approximately 1.40 crore boxes have reached markets so far. The total estimate includes apples sold through mandis, handled under the Market Intervention Scheme, stored in Controlled Atmosphere facilities, and processed through the State Agricultural Marketing Board and Agricultural Produce Market Committees.

The reduced harvest has affected transportation, packaging, and agricultural trading activities across the state. Businesses in Shimla report a 30 to 35 per cent decline in sales compared with a normal apple season.

Apple growers and residents of rural growing regions account for a substantial share of Shimla’s consumer spending. During a typical season, income from apple sales supports purchases of household goods, clothing, construction materials, and other commodities.

With lower returns from this season’s harvest, growers have reduced their spending, affecting commercial activity in Shimla and businesses linked to the apple supply chain.