Kashmiri apples costliest in Indian markets

Kashmiri apples are being sold at the most costliest rates in the fruit markets all over the country this year, according to the Department of Horticulture. As compared to last year, the rates of all varieties of Kashmiri apples have seen an approximately 40 per cent sharp increase fetching an unexpected profit margin for apple growers of Kashmir.As compared to last year’s average price of Rs 275 per apple box (Delicious variety), this year the average rate of the same variety has gone upto Rs 687 per box suggesting an approximate 40 per cent increase.

Figures reveal that the South India is a huge buyer of quality Kashmiri apples where on an average; a box of Kashmiri apples is sold Rs 100- 200 higher than those in north Indian fruit markets.In some markets, outside the state, official sources reveal that the prices have jumped higher to Rs 1000 per box of Delicious Kashmiri apples.

Till now, 7 lakh metric tones of apples in 63, 902 trucks have been exported from the valley to other states and the exports are slated to go on till February next year.“The exports therefore will certainly be larger than last year. In 2010, just 10 lakh metric tones of apples were exported. This year, it will be definitely greater than that although, exact figures are difficult to reveal at this point in time,” an official with the Planning and Marketing division of Horticulture Department said.The reason behind a huge demand for Kashmiri apples in the fruit markets is stated to be a production decline in Himachali apples this year, which led to a push in the rates of Kashmiri apples.

“Himachal Pradesh apple production, both in terms of quality and quantity has seen a tremendous decline. Besides, there is no other suitable competitor our apple industry has. We were not expecting such exorbitant rates of our apple produce, but this year it is certainly good. The production also has seen an increase, although only by 20 per cent,” said Bashir Ahmad, President, Kashmir Fruit Growers Association.

Dr. Fayyaz Ahmad Banday, Head of department, Pomology, SKAUST (K) said that the apt market for Kashmiri apples this time was found all over India resulting in its sale at very good rates.

“Indian markets have a like-ability for deep red coloured apples which this year’s produce has very well offered them. Among the most premium qualities which are in huge demand include Delicious, red gold and srat crimson. Then there are yellow coloured apples which are slightly cheaper like American, Maharaji and Golden,” he said.Department of horticulture estimates reveal that quality apples have come in from the district Shopian whereas District Baramulla has been able to register the maximum production of apples this year.