{
  "id": 4218926,
  "title": "Low apple crop, rising input costs leave Himachal growers worried despite firm prices; traders report losses",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/low-apple-crop-rising-input-costs-leave-himachal-growers-worried",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-29T15:17:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Economic Times - Economy",
    "slug": "the-economic-times-economy",
    "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/low-apple-crop-rising-input-costs-leave-himachal-growers-worried-despite-firm-prices-traders-report-losses/articleshow/133614743.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Himachal Pradesh apple growers are grappling with a challenging season, despite premium apple prices remaining firm. The crop yield has significantly declined due to adverse weather conditions during flowering, such as unseasonal rain, hail, and cold. This has caused uneven production across various altitude belts. While good-quality apples fetch prices between Rs 3,000-3,500 per 20 kg box, the additional expenses for labor, cartons, transportation, and other costs have left growers with little profit. Many growers face delayed payments under the government's Market Intervention Scheme, which has caused financial strain, especially for small growers. Traders at the Dhalli Apple Fruit Market commented that while prices are higher than last year, strong demand outside Himachal Pradesh is not yet evident, and the lower-grade apples are not fetching competitive rates.",
  "summary": "Himachal Pradesh apple growers face a difficult season with reduced production. Erratic weather severely impacted fruit setting, leading to lower yields this year. Premium apples fetch firm prices, but costs remain high for growers. Traders report weak demand and small fruit sizes affecting their margins. Pending government payments add to the financial strain on many farmers.",
  "key_points": [
    "Himachal apple crop yield down due to adverse weather during flowering",
    "Premium apple prices firm at Rs 3,000-3,500 per 20 kg box",
    "Growers face financial strain from high input costs and delayed payments"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}