Shri Hariman Sharma, a visionary farmer from Himachal Pradesh, has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri for revolutionizing Indian agriculture. His development of the HRMN-99 apple variety has transformed apple cultivation, enabling it to thrive in tropical and subtropical regions. This innovative, self-pollinating, low-chilling apple variety has expanded apple farming beyond traditional temperate zones, benefiting farmers and consumers alike. Shri Sharma’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a national icon reflects the transformative potential of grassroots innovations.
Key Highlights
Journey and Background
- Born in Paniala, Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh), and orphaned in childhood.
- Completed education till matric and pursued farming and pomology with passion.
- Overcame challenges to innovate and contribute significantly to agriculture.
- Innovation: HRMN-99 Apple Variety
- Developed in 1998 by planting seeds from discarded apples in his backyard.
- Thrives in warm climates (40-45°C) and at elevations as low as 1,800 feet.
- Unique features
- Self-pollinating and low chilling requirement.
- Produces up to 75 kg of fruit per plant annually.
- Soft, juicy pulp with striped red-over-yellow skin.
Expansion and Recognition
- Validated by National Innovation Foundation (NIF) in collaboration with ICAR, KVKs, and agricultural universities.
- HRMN-99 is now cultivated in 29 states and UTs, including tropical and subtropical regions like Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and the Northeast.
- Planted at Rashtrapati Bhavan and promoted for large-scale adoption.
- Over one lakh saplings planted across northeastern states for farmer livelihood enhancement.
Awards and Achievements
- National Award (2017) during the 9th National Biennial Grassroots Innovation Awards.
- National Innovative Farmer Award (2016).
- IARI Fellow Award (2017).
- Kisan Vaigyanik Upadhi by ICAR (2017).
- Represented India at the 4th ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (2023) in Malaysia.
Impact on Farmers and Society
- Empowered thousands of farmers with increased income and sustainable livelihoods.
- Made apples affordable for the common man, breaking the notion of it being a luxury fruit.
- Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting food security and economic growth.
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Hariman Sharma: The Apple Man of India Honored with Padma Shri |
Award | Padma Shri for Agriculture and Innovation |
Key Innovation | HRMN-99 apple variety: self-pollinating, low chilling, thriving in warm climates |
Unique Features | Produces up to 75 kg of fruit/plant; grows in tropical and subtropical regions; soft, juicy, and striped red-over-yellow skin |
Origin | Developed by planting apple seeds in 1998 in Paniala, Bilaspur |
Validated By | National Innovation Foundation (NIF), ICAR, KVKs, and agricultural universities |
Geographical Spread | Cultivated in 29 states/UTs, including Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Northeast, and Rashtrapati Bhavan |
Farmer Empowerment | Over 1 lakh saplings planted in NE states; improved farmer incomes and livelihoods |
Notable Awards | National Award (2017), National Innovative Farmer Award (2016), Kisan Vaigyanik Upadhi (2017) |
Global Recognition | Represented India at 4th ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum in Malaysia (2023) |
Social Impact | Made apples affordable for the masses, transforming apple cultivation and boosting farmer income |