Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has launched the ‘Pangi Apple’ brand to give apples grown in the remote Pangi region a distinct identity and help farmers get better market recognition.
The initiative was announced on Saturday as the state government steps up efforts to promote natural farming. Sukhu said the new brand would help buyers identify apples grown in Pangi and bring greater visibility to the region’s produce.
Pangi Sub-Division has already been declared Himachal Pradesh’s first Natural Farming Sub-Division. The government aims to build on this initiative by promoting chemical-free farming and strengthening the local economy.
Pangi Apple Gets Its Own Packaging
For years, apples grown in Pangi were sold outside the valley in cartons labelled ‘Kullu Apples’ or ‘Kinnaur Apples’. As a result, the region’s own name often did not receive recognition in the market.
The new branding aims to change that. Customised ‘Pangi Apple’ cartons have been introduced in two sizes: 20 kg and 10 kg. Farmers will be able to obtain the cartons at a 50 per cent subsidy, helping them market their produce under the region’s own name.
The move is intended to give Pangi apples a separate identity while supporting farmers in reaching the market with locally branded produce.
Apple Production Expected to Reach 550 Metric Tonnes
Pangi has around 370 hectares under apple cultivation, with more than 1.04 lakh apple plants. Production this season is expected to reach approximately 35,000 boxes, equivalent to around 550 metric tonnes.
The government believes the branding initiative can help improve the prospects of around 6,300 farming households in the region. It is also expected to encourage local entrepreneurship and create more economic opportunities.
Sukhu said the broader aim was to develop Pangi as Himachal Pradesh’s first chemical-free sub-division through natural farming. The initiative combines agricultural promotion with efforts to improve livelihoods in the remote tribal area.
By giving Pangi apples their own brand and subsidised packaging, the state government hopes to ensure that the region receives recognition for its produce while helping local farmers strengthen their position in the market.