#ShredderForAll #NoMoreBurning #EcoFriendlyFarming #HimachalAgricultureReforms #FarmersFirst
Apple Farmers Can End the Menace of Twig Burning with Shredders – But They Need Govt Support!
Shimla: Every year, as apple farmers across Himachal Pradesh prune their orchards, a thick layer of twigs and branches piles up.
The easiest solution? Burn them. But this practice has turned into an environmental nightmare, choking the pristine air of the apple belt with dense smoke and worsening air pollution.
However, a revolutionary shift is happening, thanks to progressive farmers who are now using shredding machines to turn these apple twigs into compost instead of setting them on fire.
Dr. Agar Das Thakur, a passionate apple grower, has taken the lead by adopting a shredder in his orchard, showing the way forward for sustainable farming. It is happening in Shilaroo apple belt in Theog, said Surendra Thakur, a retired Chief Engineer and apple orchardist.
How Shredding Works?
Shredders cut the pruned twigs into small pieces, which can then be used for composting. This organic matter enriches the soil, enhances moisture retention, and reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers. The best part? No pollution, no waste, only benefits!
The Big Challenge – Affordability
While shredders are proving to be a game-changer, not all farmers can afford them.
These machines are costly, and their operation requires power supply, which is often a challenge in remote apple-growing areas.
Without financial support, many small-scale orchardists are left with no choice but to continue burning their pruned branches.
What Needs to be Done?
The government must step in and provide shredders on subsidy so that every orchardist can afford this sustainable practice.
Just like how farmers receive subsidies for tractors and other farm equipment, shredders must be made accessible to all. If implemented properly, this move will:
✅ Reduce air pollution drastically
✅ Improve soil health with natural compost
✅ Cut down the dependence on chemical fertilizers
✅ Encourage zero-waste apple farming
A Call for Action!
Farmers, environmental activists, and policymakers must push for "Shredder for All" – a demand that will not only save our environment but also uplift apple growers by providing them with a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution.
The apple belt of Himachal is at a crossroads – will we continue with outdated practices that harm the environment, or will we embrace sustainable solutions? The choice is ours.
Join the Movement!
🔁 Share this story. Tag policymakers. Let’s make this a reality!
#ShredderForAll #StopBurningTwigs #SaveHimalayanAir #EcoFriendlyAppleFarming #SustainableHorticulture #AppleBeltReforms #GovtSupportNeeded
