Himachal Pradesh: Apples, Hydropower, and the Himalayas

Himachal Pradesh grows about a fifth of India’s apples. It also generates about a quarter of the country’s hydropower potential.

Must Know

• Himachal Pradesh’s capital is Shimla.
• The state was formed on 25 January 1971, becoming India’s 18th state.
• As of 2026, the Chief Minister is Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, in office since December 2022.
• The Governor is Kavinder Gupta, in office since 11 March 2026.

Good to Know

• Himachal Pradesh is often called the “Apple State of India.”
• It contributes about 20% of India’s total apple production.
• Horticulture drives roughly 20% of the state’s GDP.
• The state harnesses about 25% of India’s total hydropower potential.
• This hydropower supplies electricity to more than 10 other states.
• Hydropower alone meets over 80% of Himachal Pradesh’s own energy needs.
• Since 2024, Himachal Pradesh has run Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana, a monthly cash scheme for women. See IndSoc0071 — Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana.

Test Yourself

Great to Know

• Himachal Pradesh has one of India’s highest literacy rates, second only to Kerala.
• Literacy has risen to about 93.3%, per NFHS-5 data, with a relatively narrow gender gap.
• Its per-capita income beats the national average by about 28%, as of 2024-25.
• High literacy, high income, and heavy hydropower reliance together make its development story distinct from most Indian states.