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Abstract
The study is based on the data collected from 200 selected farmers spread over four major apple growing districts of Kashmir Valley and 11 CA stores of Kundli Industrial Growth Center (IGC) - Haryana, 6 from IGC Lassipora, Kashmir and a mega apple juice plant located in Industrial Estate on the outskirts of Srinagar. The data was collected through personal interview method using pre-tested schedule during 2017-18 and analysed using appropriate statistical tools. The study shows that the expected net returns from high density orcharding are 2.5 times higher than traditional; adoption of recommended scientific spray schedule substantially minimises cost (Rs. 38,355/ha) amounting to saving Rs. 555 crore for the entire Kashmir valley; pollinizers and pollination management are expected to add value equivalent to Rs. 2,48,312/ha; however, there is a lack of convergence between production and apple based industrial and entrepreneurial value chain and that strategic alignment of farms and market functionaries, processors and cold chain needs to be promoted for ensuring adequate returns to each of the stakeholders.