Uttarakhand Govt Steps In to Support Apple Growers in Disaster-Hit Dharali

Quick Summary

• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced relief measures for apple growers in disaster-hit Dharali and Harsil regions.
• The State government will purchase ‘royal appetizing’ apples at ₹51 per kg and ‘red delicious’ or other varieties at ₹45 per kg.
• Grade C apples are not included in the initiative.
• The move comes after the August 5 cloudburst which caused severe damage, including the destruction of entire Dharali by a mudslide, impacting apple growers’ harvests.
• Apples from these areas are highly sought-after across India.
• A circular from the Chief Minister’s office has directed immediate implementation of this plan by the agriculture and farmers’ welfare department, with updates to be reported to Mr. Dhami.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The Uttarakhand government’s proactive step to buy apples directly from farmers in disaster-hit regions reflects its commitment to supporting those affected by recent natural calamities. By setting competitive procurement prices for premium varieties like ‘royal delicious’ and ‘red delicious,’ the government aims to mitigate economic losses sustained by local growers after the destructive cloudburst in August 2025.

This intervention serves two purposes: immediate relief for financially distressed farmers and encouragement for agricultural resilience amidst an increasing frequency of climate disasters in hill states like Uttarakhand. Though, excluding Grade C apples may leave some producers without sufficient assistance, which could be addressed with complementary support schemes.

given that Dharali’s produce is renowned countrywide, this decision also helps stabilize market dynamics while potentially fostering trust between local agrarian communities and government authorities during challenging times.

Read more: The Hindu