The horticulture season in Kashmir has started, with a strong demand for pears and early apple varieties being reported. The sector plays an important role in the region's economy, affecting the livelihoods of the local population and the economic health of Kashmir. This year, favorable weather conditions have improved the quality and yield of fruit crops. Farmers in the valley are seeing an increased demand for their pear harvest, with interest from both local and national markets expected to continue throughout the season.
Bashir Ahmad Bashir, President of Parimpora Fruit Mandi, stated, "There is currently a good demand for pears across India. The rates are comparatively better, and supply is also good." Early apple varieties are similarly in demand, with buyers keen to acquire the season's first apples. This demand is driven by the quality of this year's yield and the introduction of new apple varieties. The market has seen a substantial influx of early apple varieties, with numerous trucks transporting fruit to various destinations across India, notably to New Delhi's Azadpur Mandi.
Despite a promising start, the sector has faced challenges, including prolonged dry weather, which initially concerned growers about crop yields. However, recent rainfall has rejuvenated the apple crop, demonstrating the sector's resilience. Horticulture is vital to Kashmir, involving around seven lakh families and contributing about eight percent to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Jammu and Kashmir. The valley has over 3.38 lakh hectares of land under fruit cultivation, with apples accounting for 1.62 lakh hectares.
A significant development in the region's horticulture is the adoption of high-density apple farming after 2015. These apple varieties are popular among growers for their higher yield and shorter production cycle. High-density apple trees start bearing fruit a year after planting, reaching full production by the fourth or fifth year, in contrast to traditional apple trees. The government has supported this innovation with subsidies and incentives, aiming to modernize the sector.
Source: The Kashmir Monitor