Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Procures 32,454 MT of Apples

Shimla: Despite the catastrophic rains in the state, the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) has managed to lift the entire quantity of apples procured under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) 2023. As of October 17, the HPMC has procured 32,454 metric tonnes (MT) of apples, state horticulture minister Jagat Singh Negi said on Tuesday.

HPMC Produces Record Apple Juice Concentrate

The HPMC has also produced a record 1,288 MT of Apple Juice Concentrate at its three fruit processing plants at Parala, Parwanoo, and Jarol Mandi during the current apple season. The minister made these announcements while presiding over a meeting of the HPMC board of directors in Shimla. He also formally launched the new web portal of HPMC Ltd during the meeting.

New Web Portal Launched

All services of HPMC, such as booking of controlled atmosphere/cold stores, Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), and the sale of horticulture inputs have been made online through the web portal. The trial and commissioning of the newly established HPMC fruit processing plant at Parala were also successfully conducted during the current apple season.

HPMC Records Highest Turnover

The HPMC has recorded the highest turnover of Rs 120 crore in 2022-23. The rates of apple juice concentrate produced during the current apple season were also decided during the meeting. The HPMC has decided to change the packaging designs of all HPMC products in a phased manner. The BoD decided to provide a wide range of best quality horticulture inputs to apple growers at reasonable prices.

HPMC to Provide Only Universal Cartons

The HPMC also decided to provide only universal cartons to apple growers in the next apple season and discontinue the sales of telescopic cartons. It was decided to sell its products through online platforms and a policy in this regard was approved during the meeting. HPMC has rolled out its distribution policy to provide impetus to the sales of its products through multiple channels.

Horticulture Minister's Call to Action

The minister asked the HPMC officials to strengthen the corporation by ensuring optimum utilization of resources such as the properties outside the state and by streamlining the functioning and increasing efficiency of all the business activities in the best interest of farmers.