Adani Agri Fresh Limited (AAFL) has announced an increase in the procurement price of apples from farmers in Himachal Pradesh by 12.5 per cent, raising the rate for large-medium-small (LMS) grade top-quality fruit to about US$1.08 (Rs 90) per kg this year from US$0.96 (Rs 80) last year.
"AAFL is committed to the betterment of apple farmers in the state, and the step has been taken to ensure that they get the best price for their crop," an Adani Group spokesman said.
The company procures apples from Rohru, Rampur, Tutu-Pani, Sainj, Jarol-Tikkar, and Reckong-Peo sites in Himachal Pradesh. Its procurement network covers more than 17,000 growers across 700 villages, with over 90 per cent being small and marginal farmers.
In July, AAFL launched a digital apple market platform in Bithal near Rampur, about 120 km from Shimla. The platform, currently in pilot phase, is designed to provide transparent digital auctions, bypass middlemen, and ensure assured payments. Farmers have already shown support for the system, citing transparency and convenience.
The apples are graded, packed, and marketed under the Adani brand. Bidding can be done from any location, creating access for both growers and buyers.
Adani Agri Fresh Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited, first entered the organised apple purchase, storage, and marketing sector in 2006. The company established controlled atmosphere (CA) storage facilities in the Shimla district with a capacity of 22,400 MT. These facilities are located at Bithal (near Rampur), Sainj (near Theog), and Mehandli (Rohru).
The company's distribution network includes 76 wholesale points and 1,500 retailers across India, in addition to supplying modern retail outlets. Apples procured are stored, marketed, and sold under the 'Farm-Pik' label.
Source: IANSlive
