Jammu & Kashmir’s first date orchard comes into force

Srinagar: Date farming in a cold region?—Yes, it is not a joke; it is a reality. Jammu & Kashmir’s Horticulture Department has surprised everyone with the bloom of the regions first ever date orchard. The significant effort of the sector definitely boosts the income of local farmers. Besides this, it will revolutionize the farming practices in the apple farming region.

The pilot project got underway in Samba district with 50 date saplings transported from Rajasthan four years ago. The trees grew successfully under the inspection of the horticulture officials. Currently, these trees are ready to bear fruit, bringing new opportunities to the farmers of the region.

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Farmers are enthusiastic, hoping that their destiny will change with the date farming. This is a great opportunity for them. This successful trial has opened a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir, providing farmers a chance to adopt new initiatives and expand date farming in other places with the hope of growing income.

Chief Horticulture Officer Mukesh Kumar Sharma shared the success of the project, stating, “This is the first date palm orchard in Jammu & Kashmir. We will now provide date palm saplings to local farmers at affordable rates.”

He further added, “Our aim is to connect farmers with horticulture and extend the benefits of government schemes to them. With modern farming practices, we can strengthen the local market with home-grown produce and significantly increase farmers’ income, thereby supporting the state’s economy.”

Farmer VK Kundal, visiting the orchard, expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s incredible to see dates being cultivated in Jammu & Kashmir. This initiative has immense potential. Farmers should explore this opportunity and take advantage of the department’s support.”