Bumper production of almond, walnut in state this year

Bumper production of almond, walnut in state this yearArchit Watts
Tribune News Service

Jammu, November 17
With bumper production of almond and walnut in Jammu and Kashmir, the horticulture department is expecting almost 50 per cent increase in the revenue collection.

“Last year, the department had done business of almost Rs 200 crore, and it is expected to cross the figure of Rs 300 crore this financial year,” said Mohammad Javed Khan, Director, Horticulture Planning and Marketing Department.

Khan added, “Due to favourable climate in the Kashmir valley and the kandi areas in the Jammu region, there is an increase in the production of almond and walnut, which will definitely increase the revenue collection.”

Khan further maintained that the quality of almonds and walnuts was very good in Kupwara, Budgam, Uri and Rajouri districts of the state.

“Our dry fruits are very popular in European countries, especially due to the organic farming. The growers here do not use urea,” Khan said, adding that the demand for the state’s dry fruits was much higher than the total production.

He said the white walnut, which was considered the best variety of walnut, grew only in Jammu and Kashmir. “Walnut is good for health, as it controls the cholesterol level in the body. The demand for walnut from other countries has been increasing,” said Khan.

The maximum business of dry fruit takes place at the Narwal market in Jammu, which is the biggest market of dry fruit in the country.

Khan said the department normally exports 1 kg of walnuts at a price of Rs 700-800 and 1 kg of almonds for Rs 450-500.