In South Kashmir, the apple harvest season has brought optimism among farmers, particularly for those cultivating the Kullu variety, amidst a fair market demand. The region, known for its apple production, has seen a positive shift in market dynamics this year, contrasting with the previous challenging season. Mohammad Saleem, an orchardist from Pulwama, highlighted the favorable returns from high-density premium apple varieties, including Kullu apples, which have witnessed strong demand.
Mohammad Ashraf, an experienced apple grower from Shopian district, echoed this sentiment, anticipating good market response despite his orchard's pending harvest. The demand for apples in both domestic and national markets has uplifted spirits across South Kashmir's apple-rich districts. Ghulam Hassan from Wahibugh, despite a 50% reduction in harvest compared to last year, remains optimistic due to the good market demand for premium and traditional varieties like Gala, Scarlet, Jerome, and Kullu.
The apple industry, crucial for Kashmir's economy, has rebounded this season, with favorable market conditions expected to yield better financial returns for growers despite lower production volumes. The efficient handling of logistics by local authorities, ensuring uninterrupted movement of apple-laden trucks along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, has been credited for maintaining steady market supply and demand.
Traders and laborers within the apple supply chain are witnessing this renewed optimism. Showket Ahmad, a young apple trader, noted the smooth passage of trucks to markets across the country, facilitated by the horticulture department's support. Market prices for Kullu apples have surged, with boxes selling for ₹800 to ₹1,200, indicating a significant recovery from the previous year's lows caused by the influx of cheaper foreign apples. The apple sector, supporting a substantial portion of Kashmir's population and contributing significantly to the State Gross Domestic Product (SGDP), remains a vital source of income and employment in the region.
Despite challenges such as reduced harvests and invasive pests, favorable market conditions have instilled a sense of hope among growers like Ghulam Hassan, underscoring the importance of the apple season beyond just the harvest.
Source: Rising Kashmir