Srinagar, July 23 Economic Survey has revealed that apple production in Shopian district increased by 20 percent last year.
The survey cited the establishment of pack sheds and irrigation arteries funded by the government as the main reason behind the enhanced production of Shopian apples.
To make the district a hub for exports, the Jammu and Kashmir administration last year enlisted Shopian apple among 75 products selected from 20 districts under the One District One Product Scheme for its huge potential for exports.
The government provided various facilities to the farmers including irrigation and cold storage to get better rates of the produce.
As per the growers, the granting of apple cluster status to Shopian district has helped the growers to boost their production.
“Last year, the production was not satisfactory, however, there has been some improvement. The government awarded ‘apple cluster’ status to Shopian district given the quality of the apple produced and its demand in the market,” said Mohammad Amin Peer, President of Fruit Mandi Shopian.
He said the district is witnessing major apple plantations by the farmers, which subsequently improves the production in the district.
“Currently, growers are establishing their new apple orchards. The farming is being done on scientific lines, which includes proper irrigation, spraying of pesticides, and compensation of nutrients for apple trees. In coming years, we are going to witness a major upward trend in the production of Shopian apples, which will further empower the farmers,” Peer said.
This year, he said they are also expecting a good yield. “We hope for a better production this year as well. Farmers are following every advisory and expertise from the experts. Shopian has the best climate and resources to produce quality apples,” Peer said.
Shopian, often referred to as the “Apple Bowl of Kashmir,” has long been renowned for its high-quality apple orchards. The fertile soil and conducive climate have made Shopian ideal for quality apple cultivation.
Earlier this year, Shopian Apple secured the prestigious ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) Award.
