Jammu & Kashmir’s horticulture sector takes long strides

Jammu: The horticulture industry in Jammu & Kashmir has made steady progress in recent years, as was unveiled by the government data presented in the legislative assembly. However, the government has attributed the growth in the horticulture sector to the development of market infrastructure and the arrangement of new modern trading. However, several challenges, such as weather fluctuations, transportation issues, and market competition, need to be addressed.

The government revealed an increase in both production and exports. During 2021-22, production stood at 23.41 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), with 12.07 LMT exported outside the Union Territory (UT). In 2022-23, production rose to 27.21 LMT, and exports increased to 17.48 LMT. The upward trend continued in 2023-24, with 26.43 LMT produced and 18.57 LMT exported. By February 2024-25, production reached 26.46 LMT, with 13.12 LMT exported.

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The horticulture sector has increased its production in the valley amid the adoption of e-NAM (National Agricultural Market). It has boosted the trade volumes, helping local farmers in enhancing their incomes. In 2022-23, trade stood at 92,236.29 quintals (Qtls) with a turnover of Rs. 32.72 crore. By 2023-24, it surged to 655,759.16 Qtls, generating Rs. 416.08 crore. In 2024-25 (to date), trade has reached 943,464.20 Qtls, with a turnover of Rs. 594.17 crore. Currently, more than 50,000 farmers and traders have registered on e-NAM.

Apart from this, buyer-seller meets take place in several cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, Jammu, and Srinagar, which have proved beneficial for the valley’s farmers. They got a chance to send their produce to different markets and get better prices. Such efforts are expected to further strengthen the horticulture industry in Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring better growth for farmers.