Project report for Apple Cultivation

Apple is the most important temperate fruit crop of the North Western Indian Himalayan region. It is fourth among the most widely produced fruits in the world after orange, banana and grape. China is the leading apple producer in world. In India, it is grown in Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, hills of Uttarakhand. Apple cultivation also extended to Nagaland, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya. India’s share in the total apple production of the world is only 2.0 %. Factors contributing to increased apple and apple product consumption include new varieties, rising incomes, production expansion in India, a growing and more diverse population, products that better meet consumer lifestyles and increased awareness of including fruit in a healthy diet. Fresh apple consumption in India is driven by a gradual increase in income and health consciousness among the population, dietary changes, marketing innovations, and improvements in cold-chain logistics. Additionally, developments in e-commerce, chain fruit stores, and We-chat merchandising have made fruit consumption more accessible and convenient, thereby, increasing the consumption value in third and fourth-tier cities in India. During recent years, increasing health consciousness among the population has raised the sale of fresh organic apple produce in high-end supermarkets and health food stores, targeting upscale consumers with specialized eating habits. Food manufacturers are increasing the volume of organic apples used in their processed products, such as cereal bars and organic juices, which is, in turn, driving the overall consumption of apples in the country.

The global fresh apples market has the potential to grow by 3.42 million tonnes during 2020-2024, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate throughout the forecast period because of the steady increase in year-over-year growth. The demand for organic apples is gaining traction among consumers across the globe, bolstered by consumers’ growing concern for health and wellness. In comparison with other fruits and conventionally-grown apples, organic apples are naturally lower in sugar and higher in fibre. Therefore, this variety is witnessing immense demand from global consumers. Apples are big seller all by themselves. Use that popularity to sell other items as well. Cross-merchandise apples with caramel and candy apple kits, dips, pie shells, pie toppings and baking supplies, and apple peelers and corers. The higher-income groups in these regions are even willing to pay additional amounts, with an aim to safeguard their health conditions. While India’s acreage and production of apples have declined in recent years, consumer demand has spurred a fast-growing organic apple sector. The food and beverages industry is set to experience a few structural changes in 2021 due to the increased consciousness of consumers in selecting the food. This inclination towards sustainable, regenerative, plant-based, and immunity-boosting food and beverages is augmenting the demand for the segment.