Technological innovations in apple farming in Kashmir have brought new spring in the orchards. Compared to traditional farming, high-density apple farming has given farmers more production and profit in less time.
High-density apple farming: More profit in less time
Traditional apple trees take 10-15 years to bear fruit, while high-density apple plants start bearing fruit in one to two years and become fully productive in four to five years. They are harvested in August-September, which avoids damage due to premature snowfall.
Increase in production and income
Many farmers said that high-density farming has increased their income manifold compared to traditional farming. For example, a farmer earned ₹1 lakh from traditional apples from three kanal of land, while high-density apples gave an income of ₹6 lakh in the second year itself.
Kashmir Observer
Government Initiatives and Subsidies
The government has provided 50% subsidy to farmers to promote high-density apple farming. The target is to bring 5,500 hectares of land under high-density apple farming in Jammu and Kashmir by 2026.
Major High-Density Apple Varieties
The major high-density apple varieties grown in Kashmir include Jeromein, King Roat, Gala Scarlet, Red Velox, Scarlet Spur-II, Super Chief, Redlam Gala and OV Fuji.
Technological Innovation: Orchardly App
Orchardly, an agritech startup from Kashmir, has developed a mobile app for farmers that provides services such as weather information, disease prediction, soil testing and fertilizer advice. This app helps farmers in smart farming.
Rising Kashmir
Economic and Social Impact
Apple farming in Kashmir is a vital part of the state's economy, contributing about 9.5% of the state's GDP and generating employment of about 8.5 crore man-days.
High-density apple farming has brought a new ray of hope for the farmers of Kashmir, not only increasing their income but also strengthening the state's economy.
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