In Kashmir, a significant shift is occurring in the agricultural sector, particularly among farmers and horticulturists, who are increasingly adopting exotic apple varieties over traditional ones. This trend is transforming the region's apple cultivation landscape, historically dominated by conventional types. The drive towards these new varieties is influenced by changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.
Notable among these are Red Velox, Pink Lady, Redlum Gala, Scarlet II, Golden Delicious, and Jeromine, which are becoming increasingly popular for their unique flavors, textures, and longer shelf lives.
Economic incentives also play a crucial role in this shift, with exotic varieties fetching higher market prices. "A box of Red Velox apples costs almost 30 percent more than the traditional variety. So, growers are increasingly shifting from traditional to exotic varieties to make more money," explained apple trader Mohammad Shahbaz. The cultivation of these varieties is supported by the emergence of entrepreneurs who specialize in growing these plants in nurseries.
Kashmir, contributing 75 per cent to the India's total apple production, exports over 2 mln tonnes annually. This transition towards exotic apple varieties signifies an important development in enhancing the economic and agricultural landscape of the region.
Source: kashmirobserver.net