Have you ever heard of apples growing in hot, tropical regions? Thanks to Shri Hariman Sharma from Himachal Pradesh, this is now possible! Known as the “Apple Man of India,” he has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri for his groundbreaking contribution to Indian agriculture.
The Journey of a Visionary Farmer
Hariman Sharma’s story is one of inspiration and determination. Born in a small village called Paniala in Himachal Pradesh, he faced many challenges in life, including losing his parents at a young age. Despite the hardships, he pursued his education and found his passion in farming and pomology (the study of fruit).
In 1998, he planted seeds from discarded apples in his backyard. To his surprise, one of the plants thrived in Paniala’s warm climate, growing into a unique apple variety. By 2001, the tree bore fruit, marking the beginning of what we now know as the HRMN-99 apple variety.
The Magic of HRMN-99 Apples
What makes the HRMN-99 apple so special? Unlike most apples that need cold weather, this variety can grow in tropical and plain regions where temperatures rise up to 45°C. This breakthrough means farmers in areas like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Karnataka—where apple farming was once impossible—can now grow this juicy fruit!
A Fruit for Everyone
The HRMN-99 apples have a bright red-and-yellow striped skin and are soft, juicy, and sweet. Each tree can produce up to 75 kilograms of apples annually, bringing extra income to farmers and making apples more affordable for families across India.
Recognition and Success
Although his innovation initially went unnoticed, Hariman Sharma’s efforts caught the attention of the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) in 2012. NIF verified the apple variety and helped expand its cultivation to 29 states and union territories in India. His work has inspired countless farmers and transformed the apple from being a “rich man’s fruit” to one accessible to all.
Over the years, Shri Sharma has received several awards, including the National Award (2017), the National Innovative Farmer Award (2016), and international recognition at the ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum in Malaysia (2023).
Empowering Farmers, Changing Lives
Through his dedication, Hariman Sharma has changed the lives of farmers, especially in northeastern states, by providing training and planting over one lakh HRMN-99 saplings. His innovation not only boosts farmers’ income but also promotes sustainable farming practices, aligning with global sustainability goals.
A Bright Future for Indian Agriculture
Hariman Sharma’s story proves that great ideas can come from the humblest beginnings. His HRMN-99 apple variety is more than just a fruit—it’s a symbol of hope, innovation, and the power of determination.
So, the next time you bite into a sweet, juicy apple, remember the incredible journey of Hariman Sharma, the Apple Man of India! 🍎