In the Padder-Nagseni constituency, the horticulture sector has been outlined by Minister Sunil Kumar Sharma, focusing on production metrics and farmer support frameworks. Official data places total fruit yield at over 7,400 metric tonnes, with walnuts at 4,380 MT and apples at 2,161 MT. Additional fruit outputs include apricots (463 MT), pears (171 MT), peaches (90 MT), plums (81 MT), limes and lemons (10 MT), kiwi (7 MT), and other fruits (51 MT).
Financial aid has been extended to fruit growers through various schemes over recent years. In 2023–24, 123 beneficiaries received $47,800 in subsidies, covering initiatives like area expansion, kiwi plantations, water harvesting tanks, vermi compost units, and battery-operated sprayers.
The subsequent year, 2024–25, saw 307 beneficiaries receiving $77,300. This period included activities such as orchard rejuvenation, procurement of power tillers and brush cutters, water harvesting tank construction, and distribution of Integrated Nutrient and Pest Management kits. Additionally, farmers received on-farm handling units like pack houses and vermi composting infrastructure.
To enhance the horticulture sector, Sharma noted that training programs on Modern Horticulture Techniques are being organized throughout Jammu & Kashmir. A training and exposure schedule for District Kishtwar is proposed for 2025–26, with a focus on the Padder-Nagseni area.
Source: Rising Kashmir