Kashmir’s apple growers are facing a serious crisis as climate change disrupts their once-thriving industry. This year, apple production has dropped by 30 to 40 percent, according to the Kashmir Fruit Growers and Dealers Union. The decline is attributed to unusual weather patterns, including reduced rainfall and extreme temperatures.
Farmers in the region are experiencing significant challenges due to climate change. Bashir Ahmed Bashir, president of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Association, highlighted that this is the second consecutive year of production decline. He noted that erratic weather has disrupted traditional growing seasons, making it difficult for farmers to predict conditions.
The weather changes have been drastic:
- March saw unusually hot and dry temperatures.
- This was followed by a wet and cool April.
- A prolonged drought then affected fruit development during critical growth stages.
Muhammad Rafiq, a veteran apple grower, expressed his frustration, stating that in his three decades of farming, he has never encountered such unpredictable weather. He noted that the size and quality of apples have significantly deteriorated.
The decline in both quantity and quality of apples is not just a loss for farmers; it impacts the entire agricultural economy of Kashmir. The apple industry employs thousands of families and contributes significantly to the region’s economy. However, orchards that once produced high-quality apples now struggle to meet market standards.
Experts warn that this situation could worsen if climate change continues to affect the region. The unique climate that once favored apple growth is now changing, posing a fundamental threat to this traditional industry.
The repercussions extend beyond orchards. The entire supply chain—including transporters and cold storage operators—faces uncertainty as market prices reflect declining quality. Many families dependent on the apple trade are now in precarious financial situations.
Farmers have begun calling for crop insurance and Minimum Support Prices (MSP) to protect their interests, but these demands remain unmet. Despite these challenges, the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir has seen an increase in fruit production over recent years, rising from 20.06 million tonnes in 2018-19 to 26.43 million tonnes in 2023-24.
To adapt to these changing conditions, farmers are exploring new strategies, such as introducing high-density Italian apple varieties that can yield fruit faster and withstand adverse weather better. The government is promoting these initiatives by providing subsidies and support for new farming practices.
As Kashmir’s apple industry grapples with climate change, it faces a critical juncture: balancing traditional farming methods with innovative approaches to ensure sustainability and resilience against an increasingly unpredictable climate.