Almond cultivation in Kashmir declines due to shift towards apple orchards

This trend has led to a substantial reduction in almond cultivation across the region. Areas such as Renzipora, Koil, Chandgam, Payar, Lajoora, Wasoora, Yader, and Malangpora in Pulwama have seen significant conversions of land from almond to apple cultivation over recent years. A local from the Chandgam area noted that a mere three to five percent of land remains dedicated to almond cultivation, with the majority now hosting apple orchards.

Concerns have been raised about the future of almond cultivation in the area, with predictions that almond trees may soon vanish entirely from the landscape. The preference for apple cultivation over almonds is primarily attributed to the higher market prices apples fetch. Despite the suitability of certain areas like the Karewas for almond cultivation, the economic incentives have led farmers to favor apples. The lack of technical guidance from the horticulture department on enhancing almond production has been cited as a contributing factor to this shift. Furthermore, the government's efforts to introduce high-density almonds and walnuts have not deterred farmers from converting their land.

Tral, once renowned for its quality almonds, is also witnessing a transition towards apple production. The government's focus on developing marketing, grading, and packing facilities for apples, without equivalent support for dry fruits, has influenced farmers' decisions. Official figures highlight the stark decline in almond orchard land, from 16,775 hectares in 2001-02 to just 3,630 hectares by 2017-18. The horticulture department's failure to control diseases affecting almond trees has exacerbated the situation. An officer from the department acknowledged the economic factors driving this trend, noting that while the government is promoting high-density planting for almonds and walnuts, there are no regulations preventing farmers from switching to apple cultivation.