Annual production of 600 tons from apple farm in South Asia, Manang

Apple is considered to be one of the most demanded fruits in Nepal. It is also the number one fruit imported in Nepal. The annual demand for apples in Nepal is over 130,000 tons. Domestic demand production is less than 50 thousand tons. That is, Nepal is still dependent on apples. In the last fiscal year 079/80, 83,274 tons of 7.9 billion worth of apples have been imported and 14,61 tons worth of 1.42 billion worth of apples have been imported till August of the current year.

Lately, some young people have started getting attracted to apple farming. Yuvraj Gurung of Manang is one of them.

He is operating an apple farm on 700 ropani land in Bhartang, Manang, which is 2800 meters above sea level. The apple farm, which was prepared in 2007 with an investment of 20 million rupees, is the largest in South Asia. The second largest apple farm in South Asia is also located in Sabje in Manang, Sabje apple farm is spread over 380 ropani land. In South Asia, apples are grown in places like Jammu and Kashmir in India. There is a lot of production. However, a farm is spread over an area of ​​around 10 plants. However, in Nepal, one apple farm has been prepared with 700 seedlings.

In view of the growing demand and production potential of apples in Nepal, Gurung established the farm by renting the community land of seven villages in Upper Manang. The farm house is operated by a company called Agromanang. The apple is being sold in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other cities under the brand name Himalayan Fresh.

600 tons of apples are being produced annually from the farm. Apples which are available in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara and other markets through a brand called Himalayan Fresh. This is the apple ripening and picking season (Azoj-Kattik). Now the farm has started picking apples and sending them to the market. However, the apple is not yet sold. Targeting the same situation, the company has also established its own cold store.

After the establishment of the farm, 28 locals have been permanently employed. Besides, 35 more people get temporary (seasonal) employment during apple picking, says Yuvraj Gurung, managing director of Agromanang.

The company has been making and selling not only apples but also apple chips and juice. A restaurant has also been operated in the farm premises.

Manang Beverage Company has also established a wine factory in Manang through the apples of Agromanang. In the name of Manang Valley, the company has introduced two versions of premium sweet and semi-sweet white wine in the market. Last Wednesday, the wine was launched in a special event at the Sabje Lake in Manang, which is 35 meters above sea level. Artist Swastima Khadka launched the wine.

The factory, built with an investment of 10 million, now aims to produce 200,000 liters of wine annually. About 200 tons of apples will be required for that, which will be brought from the farm in Agromanang.