Adani Agri Fresh to Begin Procurement of Cherry in Upper Shimla
Cherry growers in Himachal’s upper Shimla region are looking forward to a brighter season this year, as Adani Agri Fresh gears up to start procuring cherries from mid-May. The move, finalized after discussions between the company and the Stone Fruit Growers Association, promises competitive rates and a more reliable market for farmers.
For years, growers have struggled with inadequate post-harvest infrastructure. Cherries, being highly perishable, demand hydro-cooling and efficient cold-chain logistics—facilities that have been scarce in the region. With only one hydro-cooling chamber at Jarol Tikkar, farmers have often been forced to transport their produce overnight to Delhi mandis in small trucks, a costly and risky process that compromises fruit quality.
Under the new arrangement, Adani Agri Fresh will collect cherries directly from orchards and transport them to the hydro-cooling facility within hours. This will extend the shelf life of the fruit, allowing growers to access markets beyond Delhi and fetch better prices.
While optimism runs high, concerns remain about the efficiency of the Jarol Tikkar plant, which has faced technical issues. Officials have assured farmers that repairs will be completed before the procurement season begins.
If implemented smoothly, the initiative could be a game-changer—streamlining logistics, reducing losses, and opening new market avenues for Himachal’s cherry growers. For many, it represents not just a business deal, but a chance to finally see their hard work rewarded fairly.
