SHIMLA: Adani Agri Fresh Ltd, a company operating three CAS (controlled atmospheric Storage) stores in Sainj, Rohru, and Rampur, is grappling with poor response from farmers even two days after announcing its apple procurement rates.
The announced rate of Rs 95 per kg has failed to entice any farmers to partake, as they argue that local markets are currently offering much lucrative Rs 150 or more per kg for their produce.
Farmers are getting good prices for the quality fruit as we fetched Rs 4000 per box at Panchkula Mandi for the Royal and Spur variety today, said Gian Verma, a progressive apple farmer from Deha Balson.
Even there are buyers who have approached the farm gate of the orchards to buy fruit directly from the farmers as the apple crop is on the lower side this year.
Even the HP government has implemented the weight based market system this years in all Mandis in Himachal from this year in which the farmers are getting good prices.
HPMC, the government agency has entered the Markets buying quality apples from the market for the first time this and making payment the same day to that have made the bargain good for the farmers who face payments issues otherwise from the arhtiays.
A spokesperson from Adani Agri Fresh Ltd addressed the situation by expressing concern about the spread of misinformation regarding the company's procurement prices in Himachal Pradesh.
The company stated that their prices have historically remained competitive with prevailing rates in local markets, and this year is no exception as we are offering Rs 95 per kg.
Additionally, the company highlighted various facilities extended to farmers, including the provision of crates, packaging materials, exemption from loading and unloading charges, and regular updates on weather and crops throughout the year, he said.
The company acknowledged the hardships faced by farmers due to inclement weather, such as incessant rains and landslides, and decided to relax quality standards this year, he said.
It was observed that adverse weather conditions on the first day of procurement prevented any trucks from reaching Adani Agri Fresh Ltd's local centers, he said.
The company is reportedly collaborating with stakeholders to devise a solution for ensuring accessibility of its procurement centers to the farmers.
He claims that company's offered rate of Rs 95 per kg carries the advantage of cost savings for farmers, as they are relieved from expenses related to packaging materials and crates, potentially amounting to Rs 20 - 25 per kg, he claimed.
While some farmers remain apprehensive and critical of the offered rates, there are concerns about the dissemination of false information during this crisis period. Such misinformation, stakeholders worry, could adversely affect the farming community in the state.
