The Himachal Government is considering the inclusion of apple in mid-day meals in schools and anganwadis and in meals served to patients in hospitals. Mahender Singh, Minister, said, We are expecting a higher yield this time. The availability of this nutritious fruit will benefit both students and patients. We are also thinking of making the fruit available in small packing of 2-6 kg for sale at hotels. This will not only help the growers, but also benefit the tourists as they will get good quality fruit at reasonable prices. We will talk to the hoteliers in this regard soon.
Apple growers feel it is a good step, if it goes beyond a mere announcement. Lokender Bisht, president, Progressive Growers Association, said, Its a welcome move, but only if implemented. Apart from schools and hospitals, the government can also tie up with the Railways and hotels outside the state as well. Also, the plan will only look realistic when the modalities for Procurement and Distribution of the fruit are revealed.