Shimla’s Apple Barfi: From Village to Vogue
A Self Help Group (SHG) in Shimla’s Chauhara block has struck gold, quite literally, with its innovative apple barfi. This unique sweet, made using traditional methods with a focus on hygiene, is proving a runaway success.
Priced at Rs 325 per box, the slow-cooked delicacy is flying off the shelves at The Ridge and other markets in the region. Its long shelf life of a year adds to its appeal.
The high demand reflects not only the barfi’s delicious taste but also the growing appreciation for locally sourced, high-quality products. The success story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of rural women.
The initiative is further boosted by government support and NRLM (National Rural Livelihoods Mission) programmes designed to empower women through economic independence. This model offers a blueprint for replicating success across Himachal Pradesh and other states with similar agricultural strengths.
This success underscores the potential of SHGs to drive rural economic growth and improve the livelihoods of women, particularly in regions heavily reliant on agriculture. The apple barfi’s journey from a village kitchen to a popular market treat showcases the transformative power of skill development and government support.
