Hariman Sharma The Apple Man of India Honored with Padma Shri
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.
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 |
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