Prelude
Hariman Sharma: The Apple Man of India Who earned Padma Shri has made a remarkable impact on Indian agriculture. His innovative creation, the HRMN-99 apple variety, has changed the way apples are grown in India. Unlike traditional apple varieties that require cold climates, HRMN-99 can thrive in hot regions with summer temperatures as high as 40-45°C. This breakthrough has allowed apple cultivation in tropical and subtropical areas, opening up new opportunities for farmers.
Sharma’s hard work and dedication have earned him the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors. This award recognizes his groundbreaking contribution to agriculture, particularly his efforts in making apples more accessible to people across India. With his innovation, Sharma has empowered farmers in over 29 states to grow apples, improving their livelihoods and boosting local economies.
His journey from a small farmer in Himachal Pradesh to a national icon is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation in agriculture. Through his work, Sharma has not only transformed farming in India but also made apples a more affordable and widely available fruit for millions of people.
Introduction
Imagine growing apples in regions where the temperature soars up to 45°C—a concept once deemed impossible. Hariman Sharma, a visionary farmer from Himachal Pradesh, turned this dream into a reality with his groundbreaking innovation: HRMN-99. Known as The Apple Man of India, Sharma developed this self-pollinating, low-chill apple variety that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, reshaping the way apples are cultivated in India.
This inspiring story began in the late 1990s when Sharma experimented with discarded apple seeds in his backyard. Little did he know that his determination would lead to a breakthrough that would revolutionize Indian horticulture. Despite initial skepticism and challenges, Sharma’s perseverance earned him the prestigious Padma Shri award, global recognition, and the gratitude of countless farmers who now benefit from his innovation.
In this article, TN HEADLINES24 delves into Hariman Sharma’s journey, highlighting the transformative impact of HRMN-99, the challenges he overcame, and his significant contribution to the agricultural landscape.
Who is Hariman Sharma, The Padma Shri Awardee and Apple Man of India?
Hariman Sharma, known as The Apple Man of India, is a visionary farmer who earned the Padma Shri for his groundbreaking contributions to agriculture. He developed the HRMN-99 apple variety, which can grow in hot climates, making apple farming possible in regions once thought unsuitable. His innovation has revolutionized Indian farming, benefiting farmers across the country. Sharma’s efforts have not only transformed agriculture but also made apples more accessible to millions.
A Revolutionary Innovation: The HRMN-99 Apple Variety
Hariman Sharma’s journey began in 1998 when he planted discarded apple seeds in his backyard in Paniyala, a village in Himachal Pradesh. By 2001, one of these plants bore fruit despite the region’s scorching summer temperatures. This motivated him to develop HRMN-99, a unique apple variety that thrives in temperatures up to 45°C, transforming apple farming across 29 Indian states and union territories.
Unlike traditional apples that need cooler climates, HRMN-99 has redefined the limits of apple cultivation, empowering farmers in regions where apple farming was previously unthinkable.
Challenges and Determination
Sharma’s path was filled with challenges. Initially, agricultural experts and scientists were skeptical of his claims. Despite this, he remained steadfast, dedicating over a decade to perfecting the HRMN-99 variety.
In 2012, Sharma’s efforts were validated by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), which collaborated with ICAR and Krishi Vigyan Kendras to conduct molecular studies and multi-location trials. The results were extraordinary—trees thriving in warmer climates and yielding up to 75 kilograms of fruit annually.
Empowering Farmers Across India
Sharma’s innovation has had a transformative impact on farmers, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Farmers in the northeastern states have seen significant benefits, with over 100,000 HRMN-99 plants already cultivated.
This breakthrough has made apples more accessible and affordable, turning what was once considered a luxury fruit into a sustainable source of income for farmers.
Global Recognition for the Apple Man of India
In 2023, Hariman Sharma represented India at the 4th ASEAN-India Grassroots Innovation Forum in Malaysia, earning international recognition for his contributions. His title as The Apple Man of India symbolizes his groundbreaking achievements and the power of grassroots innovation.
FAQs
1. What is HRMN-99?
HRMN-99 is a unique apple variety developed by Hariman Sharma that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
2. Why is Hariman Sharma called The Apple Man of India?
Sharma earned this title for transforming apple farming with his HRMN-99 variety, making it possible in warm regions.
3. How much fruit does an HRMN-99 tree produce annually?
Each HRMN-99 tree can yield up to 75 kilograms of apples every year.
4. What regions can grow HRMN-99 apples?
HRMN-99 apples can be grown in 29 Indian states and union territories, including warm plains and tropical areas.
5. How has HRMN-99 helped farmers?
The variety has provided farmers with a sustainable source of income and made apples more affordable and accessible to the masses.
TN HEADLINES24 INSIGHTS
Hariman Sharma’s journey shows how innovation and determination can lead to remarkable change. By challenging traditional farming methods, he didn’t just transform apple cultivation; he also helped thousands of farmers improve their livelihoods and achieve greater success.
TN HEADLINES24 READERS’ INSIGHTS
We’d love to hear your thoughts on Hariman Sharma’s inspiring story! Do you think his innovation could inspire other groundbreaking ideas in agriculture? Share your insights in the comments below.
TN HEADLINES24 BOTTOM LINE
Hariman Sharma’s HRMN-99 apple variety is more than an agricultural success; it’s a symbol of hope and resilience. His journey proves that grassroots innovation can overcome challenges and create opportunities for millions. As The Apple Man of India, Sharma has not only changed the lives of farmers but also redefined the future of farming in India.
Learn more about grassroots innovation at National Innovation Foundation
Explore apple farming techniques at ICAR’s Official Website
TN HEADLINES24 QUIZ | TEST YOURSELF
(10 Multiple-Choice Questions)
1. What is Hariman Sharma known as?
A. The Apple King of India
B. The Apple Man of India
C. The Apple Innovator of India
D. The Fruit Pioneer
2. In which year did Hariman Sharma plant apple seeds in his backyard?
A. 1995
B. 1998
C. 2000
D. 2001
3. What is the name of the apple variety developed by Sharma?
A. HRMN-95
B. HRMN-99
C. HRMN-100
D. HRMN-89
4. In which Indian state is Sharma’s village located?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Himachal Pradesh
C. Uttarakhand
D. Punjab
5. What is the maximum temperature HRMN-99 can thrive in?
A. 35°C
B. 40°C
C. 45°C
D. 50°C
6. When did the National Innovation Foundation recognize Sharma’s work?
A. 2010
B. 2012
C. 2015
D. 2018
7. How much fruit can an HRMN-99 tree yield annually?
A. 50 kg
B. 60 kg
C. 75 kg
D. 80 kg
8. Which global forum did Sharma represent India at in 2023?
A. UN Climate Forum
B. ASEAN-India Grassroots Innovation Forum
C. World Horticulture Conference
D. Agricultural Innovation Summit
9. How many Indian states can grow HRMN-99 apples?
A. 20
B. 25
C. 29
D. 30
10. What award did Hariman Sharma receive for his contributions?
A. Bharat Ratna
B. Padma Shri
C. National Farmer Award
D. Padma Bhushan
TN HEADLINES24 | VOCABULARY CHALLENGE
(10 Multiple-Choice Questions)
1. What does “visionary” mean in this context?
A. A dreamer
B. A person with original ideas about the future
C. A scientist
D. An innovator
2. What is the meaning of “prestigious”?
A. Famous
B. Respected and admired
C. Popular
D. Controversial
3. What is the synonym of “revolutionize”?
A. Change drastically
B. Create chaos
C. Improve slightly
D. Restore
4. What does “breakthrough” imply in this article?
A. A major step forward
B. A small success
C. A failure
D. A mistake
5. What is the meaning of “sustainable”?
A. Long-lasting and eco-friendly
B. Temporary
C. Economical
D. Profitable
6. What does “grassroots” refer to in the article?
A. Starting at the local level
B. Related to farming
C. A natural process
D. A scientific discovery
7. What is the synonym of “empower”?
A. Support
B. Strengthen
C. Limit
D. Neglect
8. What does “accessible” mean in this context?
A. Easy to obtain or use
B. Difficult to find
C. Expensive
D. Rare
9. What is the meaning of “skepticism”?
A. Doubt or disbelief
B. Curiosity
C. Acceptance
D. Confidence
10. What is the synonym of “dedication”?
A. Commitment
B. Laziness
C. Passion
D. Interest
ANSWER
TN HEADLINES24 QUIZ | TEST YOURSELF
1. B | 2. B | 3. B | 4. B | 5. C | 6. B | 7. C | 8. B | 9. C | 10. B
TN HEADLINES24 | VOCABULARY CHALLENGE
1. B | 2. B | 3. A | 4. A | 5. A | 6. A | 7. B | 8. A | 9. A | 10. A
Disclaimer
The content and quiz provided by TN HEADLINES24 are for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, TN HEADLINES24 is not liable for any errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to cross-verify the information before drawing conclusions. The quizzes aim to engage readers and enhance their understanding of the topic discussed. TN HEADLINES24 does not guarantee success or expertise through participation in the quizzes. For expert advice, always consult a professional in the relevant field.
