Decline In Almond Industry In Kashmir: Causes And Solutions

The almond industry in Kashmir, which was once a flourishing trade, is now on a decline. The unfavourable weather conditions, low temperatures, lack of attention from the horticulture department, and competition with more remunerative apple crops are some of the reasons behind the decline of almond production. 

In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes of the decline of the almond industry in Kashmir and the solutions that the government is implementing to revive the industry.

Causes of Decline

Here are a few causes behind the decline in Kashmir’s almond industry:

1. Competition With Apple Crop

One of the primary reasons behind the decline of the almond industry in Kashmir is the competition with the more remunerative apple crop. Farmers have moved from almond cultivation to apple orchards as apples fetch good returns. This shift in focus has resulted in the loss of interest in almond plantations, and many farmers have axed almond trees and planted apples.

2. Unfavourable Weather Conditions

Unfavourable weather conditions such as low temperatures, rainfall, and wind during bloom, have considerably reduced fruit set and subsequently almond production. The non-availability of frost-resistant and late-bloom varieties of almonds is also a cause of the decline. Unpleasant weather during bloom is one of the critical reasons for the decline of almond production in Kashmir.

3. Loss of Interest in Almond Plantation

Over the years, farmers have lost interest in almond plantations due to untimely rains in March and cheaper varieties of almonds. In addition, in many villages, wild animals have also harmed almond trees. The karewas, which were good for almond cultivation, have been damaged due to construction and soil extraction. The lack of a centralized dry fruit market or Mandi has also made it difficult for almond growers to sell their produce.

Solutions

Now that we have elaborated on the problems, here are a few solutions to revive the declining almond industry: 

1. Modified High-Density Plantation Scheme

The J&K government has launched the Modified High-Density Plantation Scheme for almonds, along with other fruit crops. Under the said scheme, high-yielding exotic varieties on HD Clonal rootstocks favouring prevailing weather conditions will be planted on modern lines. This initiative aims to increase the production of almonds and other fruit crops in the region.

2. Establishing Almond Exclusive Nurseries

To develop the latest almond types locally, the horticulture department is also attempting to establish nurseries that are exclusively for almonds. This initiative will ensure that farmers have access to the latest and high-yielding almond varieties, which will boost the almond industry’s production.

3. Developing Irrigation Infrastructure

The horticulture department is developing irrigation infrastructure in almond growing belts under various schemes like MIDH, PMDP, PMKSY, etc. Almond needs to be irrigated during the growing season, and the trees utilize water at a fast rate. The lack of irrigation infrastructure has adversely affected the almond yield. Developing irrigation infrastructure will help to curb this problem.

4. Holistic Agriculture Development Plan

The Holistic Agriculture Development Plan, launched by the J&K government, aims to provide a flip in the area, production, and quality of crops such as almonds. Under this program, the almond industry will receive a boost, and farmers will be encouraged to cultivate almonds by providing them with the necessary infrastructure, expertise, and financial support. 

Insight

The government has launched several schemes and initiatives to revive the almond industry in Kashmir. With these measures, the almond industry in Kashmir can be revived and it can flourish like the good old days. This in turn will provide a boost to the agricultural sector in the region.

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