Vol. 7, Issue 12, Part I (2025)

The study analyzes the growth performance and instability of apple cultivation in major districts of Himachal Pradesh over 15 years (2009-10 to 2023-24). Secondary data were collected from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics and the National Horticulture Board. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), Coefficient of Variation (CV) and Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index (CDVI) were employed to examine trends in area, production and productivity. Results revealed that while the overall area under apple cultivation has expanded across the state, the rate of growth has been uneven among districts. Shimla, Kinnaur and Kullu recorded relatively higher productivity and stability, whereas Mandi, Sirmour and Kangra exhibited lower and more unstable production. The analysis indicated that production instability may be caused by yield fluctuations due to climatic variability, irregular rainfall, pest attacks and ageing orchards. The CDVI values confirmed that productivity variation contributed more to instability than area changes. The study recommends adopting resilient varieties, improving irrigation and strengthening post-harvest infrastructure to achieve sustainable and stable apple production.