Apple Cultivation in Jashpur: READS' Initiative Sparks Agricultural Revolution, Transforming Farmers’ Lives

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich agricultural diversity, Jashpur district in Chhattisgarh is witnessing an extraordinary transformation in its farming landscape. Traditionally known for rice cultivation, and more recently for successful ventures into litchi, mango, strawberry, tea, and coffee, Jashpur has now added a surprising new crop to its repertoire – apples.

This unexpected success in apple farming has sparked what many are calling an agricultural revolution, led by the visionary works of the READS organisation in Jashpur, Chhattisgarh. What once seemed impossible — growing apples in the relatively warmer climate of Jashpur — is now a celebrated reality.

The turning point came when the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram provided land for a pilot apple orchard, and the results exceeded expectations. Traditionally, apple cultivation was considered limited to cooler regions like Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. However, READS shattered this myth by introducing farmers to low-chilling apple varieties such as ‘Anna’ and ‘Dorsett Golden’, perfectly suited to Jashpur’s climate.

Under the expert guidance of Rajesh Gupta and his team, farmers in the plateau regions of Bagicha block began experimenting with apple orchards. Their dedication and hard work bore fruit — quite literally — with successful harvests now bringing in significantly higher profits than traditional crops. Many of these farmers had already found success in pear cultivation and are now reaping even greater returns from apples.

This new wave of cultivation is not only enhancing farmers’ incomes, but also curbing migration from rural areas, offering a sustainable livelihood close to home. Today, Jashpur is not just known for its litchi, strawberry, and tea; it is also gaining national recognition for its distinct and high-quality "Jashpuriya Apples."

READS has thus not only changed the lives of farmers but has also put Jashpur on the map as a model for agricultural innovation. The success story of apple farming in Jashpur is now inspiring other regions across India, proving that with the right vision, support, and innovation, a sweet agricultural revolution is always within reach — and in Jashpur, that revolution tastes like apples.