Assessing the role of value addition of deciduous fruits in poverty reduction in Tehsil Danyor District Gilgit

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of value addition in deciduous fruit production on household income and poverty reduction among smallholder farmers in Tehsil Danyoure, District Gilgit, and Pakistan. Despite favourable agro-climatic conditions, the region suffers from significant post-harvest losses (50–70%) due to minimal processing and poor market linkages. The results revealed that cherry (37.76%) and apricot (27.80%) are the dominant deciduous fruits cultivated in Tehsil Danyore, highlighting strong potential for targeted value addition. Among existing practices, drying (50.21%) and packaging (26.97%) were the most common, while advanced techniques such as cold storage were absent, contributing to high post-harvest losses (up to 49.38% reporting very high losses). Most farmers participated in packaging and marketing activities but had limited involvement in processing and product development, indicating early-stage value chain engagement. Value addition was primarily pursued to increase profitability (29.46%) and extend product shelf life (26.97%). Despite universal access to training programs, 40.25% rated them as average, suggesting a need for more practical and follow-up support. Farmers possessed substantial experience in fruit cultivation, yet faced key constraints such as financial limitations (40.66%), lack of infrastructure (24.48%), and inadequate technical knowledge (14.52%). A large majority (71.78%) demonstrated high awareness of the benefits of value addition, recognizing its role in improving profit margins (47.72%) and product value (35.68%). High-potential opportunities identified included dried fruit snacks (30.71%) and innovative packaging (26.14%), reflecting avenues for diversification and entrepreneurship. Value addition was also perceived to generate direct employment (24.48%) and support rural development (14.11%). The study concludes that value addition has strong potential to enhance income, reduce poverty, and generate rural employment if supported through targeted training, infrastructure development, and market facilitation. Low-interest credit schemes and microfinance facilities should be made available to help small farmers invest in processing equipment and packaging materials. © 2025 The Author(s)