In Jammu and Kashmir, a shift towards high-density apple cultivation is underway, exemplified by growers like Farhan Bhat from Baramulla. Initially owning 10 kanals of land with six dedicated to apple farming, Bhat transitioned his remaining land to high-density apple orchards. "Since then, I have been completely associated with farming," Bhat stated, highlighting the financial viability of this approach.
This trend reflects a broader movement in the region, where farmers are increasingly opting for horticulture over traditional agriculture. The expansion of horticulture is supported by government initiatives aimed at modernizing agricultural practices. Official data indicates an 11% increase in cultivated area and a 17% rise in production over five years.
By 2024, the horticultural area in Jammu and Kashmir expanded to 437,000 hectares from 400,000 hectares in 2020. Anantnag leads with 32,156 hectares, followed by Baramulla with 30,398 hectares and Kupwara with 29,167 hectares. Other notable districts include Pulwama, Shopian, and Kulgam. Srinagar and Samba have the smallest horticultural areas, with 3,298 and 5,653 hectares, respectively.
Production data shows a similar upward trend. In 2020, the region produced 3,891,000 metric tons (MT) of horticultural products. By 2024, production increased to 4,645,000 MT, a 17% growth. The surge is attributed to government efforts to introduce high-density apple varieties, with applications surpassing the initial target of 1,343 hectares, covering over 7,000 hectares.
Source: The Kashmir Monitor