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.

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.