Cherry orchards in Himachal Pradesh reap it rich

For farmers in Himachal Pradesh' cultivating cherries has become an alternate lucrative option vis-à-vis the traditional apples.

Cherries are organic-based unlike other horticulture products, which are grown with the help of chemical and synthetic aids.

Farmers say cherries do not rely on any chemical inputs.

"We do not add any chemical in growing these fruits. We use cow manure to produce the crop. We do not use any chemical sprays or use any other soil. This is a healthy fruit in comparison to other vegetables and fruits available in the market," said Durgu Devi, a cherry grower.

The Department of Horticulture in Himachal Pradesh feels that growing cherries can usher an economic boom for farmers of the state.

"We are planning to bring in such schemes including vermiculture and using compost which is useful for organic cultivation. And cherry is one of those fruits," said Narender Bragta, Horticulture Minister, Himachal Pradesh.

Farmers earn around 120 to 300 rupees from a kilogram of cherries, which are in good demand in markets of Delhi, Chandigarh and other cities.

On an average, the state produces around 480 metric tonnes of cherry, and the expectations this year, is that it may touch 1100 metric tonnes.

Cherry also provide ample employment opportunities during the off-season.