Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Aug 15: After enduring a prolonged dry spell and intense heat, farmers across Kashmir are finally breathing a sigh of relief as much-needed rainfall has arrived in the region. The showers, which began on Thursday, have brought renewed hope to farmers, especially those in the agriculture and horticulture sectors.
For nearly three months, Kashmir had been gripped by unusually dry conditions, which raised concerns among farmers about the impact on their crops. However, the rainfall has rejuvenated their spirits and brought optimism for a better yield.
Mohammad Saleem, a farmer of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) expressed his relief, saying that the prolonged heatwave and dry spell had led to the outbreak of various diseases in orchards and paddy fields.
He said the rain would help in combating issues like Alternaria and spider mites, which had plagued their crops. “This rain will enhance the shine of the produce, as well as its size and quality,” Saleem added.
Similarly, Sameer Ahmad, another farmer, said the rainfall is crucial for both agriculture and horticulture, including the saffron crop. “The lack of rainfall had raised concerns about the quality and yield of the apple crop, with many growers fearing significant losses. However, the recent showers have rekindled hope among the farming community,” he said.
Growers also said that the timely rain would benefit high-density apple orchards, which are now expected to enter the harvesting phase. “These modern orchards, known for producing higher yields of premium quality apples, are now poised to begin the harvesting season in full swing,” they said.
The rain has not only replenished soil moisture levels but has also ensured that the apples will grow to their optimal size and quality, promising good returns for the growers.
Farmers are now preparing for the high-density apple-picking process, which is expected to commence in the next two to three days. The recent rainfall is seen as a blessing, as it has revived hopes for a successful season and alleviated the stress caused by the prolonged dry spell.
Experts have echoed the sentiments of the farmers. “This spell of rain is crucial for the farming community in Kashmir. With the high-density apple-picking season set to begin, growers are looking forward to a productive and profitable period ahead,” they said—(KNO)
