Himachal Plans Faster Payments for Apple Growers with Direct Transfer System

In a move aimed at making life easier for apple growers, the Himachal Pradesh government is considering introducing a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). The initiative is designed to ensure that farmers receive their payments quickly, directly, and with greater transparency.

The proposal was discussed during a review meeting of the Horticulture Department chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in Shimla. He directed officials to explore shifting from the current non-cash payment system to direct transfers into growers’ bank accounts.

Highlighting the importance of timely payments, the Chief Minister said that such a step could be particularly beneficial for small and marginal farmers, who often depend on quick returns during the harvest season to manage their expenses and livelihoods.

Alongside this, the government is gearing up for the upcoming apple season. Officials have been asked to assess expected production levels and make early arrangements to avoid last-minute challenges. This year, around 132 collection centres are planned across the state to facilitate apple procurement under the MIS.

The Chief Minister stressed that these centres must function smoothly and efficiently, ensuring that growers can sell their produce—especially culled apples—without facing unnecessary delays or difficulties.

The discussion also focused on strengthening the marketing side of horticulture. Sukhu urged officials to improve the sale and promotion of products such as apple juice concentrate produced by the Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation. Enhancing these efforts, he noted, would help make the organisation more financially sustainable.

To further streamline the process, he suggested increasing the number of auction centres so that produce can be sold more quickly and efficiently. He also emphasized the need for digitising the entire procurement system, calling it a key step toward improving transparency and accountability.

Overall, the proposed reforms reflect the government’s effort to modernize the horticulture sector while ensuring that farmers receive timely support and better market access.