Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The 7th edition of the Apple Conclave in Shimla brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and agricultural experts to discuss advancements in apple farming, with a strong focus on technology, research, and farmer empowerment.
Speaking at the event, Sanjay Suri, Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry, emphasized the importance of organizing the conclave annually. He stated that with rapid technological changes and ongoing global research, it is essential to bring the latest knowledge directly to farmers who may not have the means to access such information themselves.
He highlighted that the conclave serves as a platform to bridge this gap by integrating global advancements into local agricultural practices through supportive policies and knowledge-sharing initiatives. “It is our responsibility to bring this knowledge here so that farmers can benefit from it,” he said, underlining the role of institutions in strengthening the agricultural ecosystem.
Suri also pointed out the growing involvement of major business groups in the agricultural sector. He mentioned that companies, including the Adani Group, are actively investing in farming-related infrastructure and initiatives. These collaborations aim to provide farmers with better resources, improved techniques, and access to markets, thereby enhancing productivity and profitability.
Adding to the discussion, Manish Agarwal, Business Head of Adani Agri Fresh, shared insights into the company’s initiatives in Himachal Pradesh. He explained that under the vision of the company’s leadership, three advanced storage facilities have been established to support apple farmers and ensure better preservation of produce.
Agarwal noted that these facilities have enabled farmers to supply their apples directly, offering them a reliable and structured platform. He emphasized that the key objective is to provide farmers with an alternative channel to sell their produce, ensuring more predictable pricing and reducing dependency on traditional market fluctuations.
The conclave highlighted the need for a collaborative approach, combining technology, investment, and policy support to uplift the apple farming community. Discussions revolved around improving supply chains, enhancing storage infrastructure, and ensuring fair pricing mechanisms for farmers.
The event underscored a shared vision of empowering farmers by equipping them with knowledge, resources, and market access, enabling them to make informed decisions and achieve sustainable growth.
