Wondering if raspberry farming is realistic in India and which areas or conditions suit it.
2 Answers
Raspberry is a cool-temperate berry that needs cold winters with chilling and mild summers, so in India it is mainly possible in higher hill areas of Himachal, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and similar cool zones, and even there it is a niche, mostly small-scale crop. It needs well-drained, slightly acidic soil, support or trellis for the canes, and careful cane management since it fruits on canes of a certain age. The fruit is very soft and highly perishable, which is the biggest commercial challenge in India given distance to markets and weak cold chains. It is not a proven large-scale commercial crop here, so treat it as experimental or for high-value local and specialty markets. Confirm suitability and any recommended types for Kinnaur with your KVK or a horticulture university before investing.
It grows in our high areas but the fruit is so delicate it barely survives transport. Only worth it if you have a nearby buyer or sell it yourself fresh.