From Orchard to Market: A Cool Solution for Hamirpur’s Growing Fruit Harvest
Hamirpur, 02 February 2026 – Hamirpur’s orchards are thriving. Thanks to dedicated efforts, fruit production in the district reached an impressive 2200 metric tonnes last year. But with this sweet success comes a new challenge: ensuring farmers can store their harvest to get the best price and prevent waste. The Garden Department is stepping in with a powerful solution—a 50% subsidy to help gardeners and entrepreneurs build modern cold storage units.
A Blossoming Sector
Once not widely known for its fruits, Hamirpur is now firmly on the horticulture map. Under state schemes like the HPShiva project, plantations of oranges, guavas, mangoes, litchis, and pomegranates are flourishing across approximately 8100 hectares.
“The sector is growing with great momentum,” says Rajeshwar Parmar, Deputy Director of the Garden Department. “Our aim is to expand to 9000 hectares and reach about 5000 metric tonnes of production by 2030.”
Preserving Profit, Preventing Waste
This boom highlights a critical need. “As production increases, so does the need for cold stores,” Parmar explains. The district’s fruit season stretches from the rains through winter, often leading to market gluts. When all produce arrives at once, prices drop, and without proper storage, precious fruits can spoil before ever reaching a consumer.
A cold store changes this equation entirely. It allows gardeners to safely preserve their harvest and release it to the market when demand—and prices—are more favourable. To make this crucial infrastructure accessible, the department is offering a 50% subsidy on construction costs.
Local Success Stories: Powering Up with the Sun
The initiative is already bearing fruit. Entrepreneurs like Suresh Kumar of Didwin and Vijaypal Kaushal of Bhida have pioneered the way. Each has established a cold storage unit at a cost of ₹52 lakh, receiving a ₹26 lakh subsidy. In a forward-thinking move, both units are powered by solar energy, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective operation.
“These units are a blueprint for success,” says Parmar. “They show how technology can empower our local growers.”
An Invitation to Growers
The department is actively encouraging more gardeners and entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity. By building cold storage, they can secure their income, reduce post-harvest losses, and contribute to a more resilient local food economy.
Gardeners interested in the subsidy scheme for cold stores under the Horticulture Technical Mission are invited to contact their local Garden Department office. It’s a step towards ensuring that the hard work in Hamirpur’s orchards translates into lasting prosperity for its people.
