There was a time when the idea of growing apples outside the high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh seemed impossible. However, Hariman Sharma, a visionary orchardist from Galasin village in Ghumarvin subdivision of Bilaspur district, dared to dream what others didn’t.
Hariman Sharma defied conventional wisdom by successfully cultivating apples in the plains, proving that determination and innovation could overcome nature’s limitations.
The groundbreaking achievement in apple cultivation has earned Hariman Sharma the prestigious Padma Shri award on Republic Day.
By growing apples in warmer regions, Hariman Sharma has given hope to those living in plains of improving their financial standing.
Developed low-altitude apple variety ‘HRMN-99’
His innovative apple variety, ‘HRMN-99’, thrives at elevations as low as 1,800 feet above sea level, a feat that was once considered unimaginable.
Unlike traditional apple varieties that are harvested between July and September, Hariman’s apples are ready for picking by June, offering an early market advantage of higher price to orchardists.
His success story has spread far and wide. So far, around 1.4 million saplings of ‘HRMN-99,’ developed by Hariman, have been planted by over 1 lakh farmers across India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Zambia and Germany.
Surprised former Himachal CM with his produce
Additionally, more than 1.9 lakh saplings have been distributed to over 6,000 individuals. Apart from apples, Hariman also cultivates mangoes, kiwis and pomegranates in his orchard, further diversifying his agricultural portfolio.
On July 7, 2007, Hariman made headlines when he visited the Shimla Secretariat with 10 kg of apples and 5 kg of mangoes to meet the then Chief Minister, Prem Kumar Dhumal.
He presented his homegrown fruits, proving their viability in Bilaspur’s hot climate, where temperatures often soar to 40-45 degrees Celsius.
Received first award in 2008
Impressed by his efforts, the Chief Minister visited Hariman’s orchard in Paniyala and later honoured him with the Preranasrot Samman on August 15, 2008.
This marked the beginning of numerous accolades, including 15 national awards, 10 state-level honours, and five additional recognitions.
Born on April 4, 1956, in Galasin village, Hariman faced hardships early in life. His mother passed away when he was just three days old and he was adopted by Ridku Ram from Paniyala village.
Despite financial constraints, Hariman completed his education up to the tenth grade and later embarked on his journey to revolutionise apple farming.
