Horticulture
also serves as a high contributing industry to the state’s economy. Out of the
total area of horticulture in the state, 90 percent is concentrated in the
valley due to its suitable climate. With annual turnover of 75 million USD,
this sector is the biggest source of income in the state’s economy next to
agriculture. Additionally, horticulture is gaining momemtum in the state as
revealed by its 7-8% contribution to the state’s GDP.
Almost 45% of economic
returns in the agricultural sector is accounted for by horticulture.4 The
agro-climatic conditions prove highly suitable for growth and development
fruits and various wild herbs. Local soil is deep and rich in organic matter
and access to human resources for farm labour is amply abundant.
The horticulture
industry also serves as a great advantage to the state due to its monopoly on
walnuts,black walnuts, almonds, pears, cherries, apples, hazelnuts, pecan-nuts,
strawberries, goji berries, persimmon, and kiwi fruits. However, according to the J&K Planning Commission, Kashmiri horticulturalists have limited their industry to
merely supplying primary products rather than diversifying their market through
value addition. Juice concentrate and jams, processing units for saffron, herbs
and dry fruits like almonds and walnuts also offer abundant opportunities for
entrepreneurship. Export potential for processed fruits, walnut products,
honey, and etc., will increase through consciencious use of fertilizers for
quality production and disease protection. By utilizing modern technology for
packaging and cold storage, youth entrepreneurs can transform the Kashmirhorticulture industry.
The
Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB:
667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph:
(Resi) 01933-223705
Mob:
09858986794/09419966983
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twitter.com/jkmpic
