Japanese persimmon cultivation is increasing in India's Himachal Pradesh as growers in cooler regions look for alternatives to traditional crops. In the Kullu district, producers report higher returns compared to corn, apples, and pomegranates.
Grower Madanlal from Khokhan village began planting Japanese persimmon with support from the Horticulture Department. He noted that "previously, traditional crops like wheat and corn were grown on our farms. However, since we started growing Japanese fruit, the income has improved significantly." He added that apples and pomegranates require higher inputs of pesticides, fertilisers, and sprays, reducing margins. Current market prices range from 120 to 180 rupees per kg (US$1.44 to US$2.16).
In the Gadsa Valley, grower Yograj Thakur transitioned from pomegranates due to weather-related disease pressure. "I had previously cultivated a pomegranate orchard. However, due to the changing weather patterns, the pomegranate crop was affected by various diseases," he said. Pomegranates fetched 60 to 100 rupees per kg (US$0.72 to US$1.20). He reported that the Japanese persimmon requires fewer inputs and is harvested from November to December.
Persimmon cultivation in the Kullu district covered 200 hectares in 2023 and expanded to 404 hectares in 2025. The Horticulture Department reports increased demand for planting material, with growers purchasing plants from external nurseries. Planting begins in January.
Kullu district has set a production target of 1,400 metric tons for 2025. Harvests begin entering local vegetable markets in September. The state government provides a subsidy of 62,500 rupees per hectare (US$751 per hectare) and a 50 percent power subsidy for tillers and sprayers. An 80 percent subsidy is available for nets used to protect crops from birds and hail.
Historical production data show 297 metric tons in Kullu, 185 metric tons in Naggar, 324 metric tons in Banjar, 11 metric tons in Ani, and 22 metric tons in Nirmand in 2019–20. In 2020–21, output included 275 metric tons in Kullu, 154 metric tons in Naggar, 260 metric tons in Banjar, 2 metric tons in Ani, and 11 metric tons in Nirmand. Production in the Kullu district reached 1,250 metric tons in 2023–24. The current target stands at 1,406 metric tons.
Growers report that the crop requires protection from birds, often using mesh netting, but does not require extensive pesticide programs.
Source: Bharat
