NewKerala.com

Key Points

Rajouri’s shift to ultra-high-density apple farming is revitalizing local agriculture with higher yields and profits. Government-backed nurseries and training programs empower farmers with modern techniques. The recent MIP hike further safeguards growers by discouraging cheap imports. This initiative marks a sustainable economic turnaround for Jammu & Kashmir’s horticulture sector.

Key Points: Ultra-High-Density Apple Farming Boosts Rajouri Livelihoods

  • Modern techniques double apple yields for Rajouri farmers
  • High-tech nurseries accelerate plant growth in Saaj and Budhal
  • Central schemes fund training and financial support for horticulturists
  • MIP hike protects local apple growers from cheap imports
3 min read

J&K: Ultra-high-density apple farming improves livelihood and employment opportunities in Rajouri

Rajouri farmers thrive as ultra-high-density apple farming transforms horticulture, doubling incomes and creating jobs in Jammu & Kashmir.

"We used to plant corn but now earn profits from apple orchards – Parveen Akhter, Rajouri farmer"

Rajouri, July 11

Ultra-high-density apple farming is transforming the horticulture sector in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative, launched under centrally sponsored schemes, aims to boost apple production and double farmers' income.

Farmers in Rajouri's Thanamandi block are experiencing significant income growth due to high-quality apple production.

The shift to ultra-high-density apple farming has provided employment opportunities and better livelihood options for the local poor. Farmers are being trained in modern horticulture practices, enabling them to optimise yields and improve quality.

The program is being implemented in several blocks, including Thanamandi, Dharhal, Kotranka, Budhal, and Manjakote. High-tech nurseries have been set up in the Saaj and Budhal areas to support the initiative.

Abdul Razak, who is in charge of Nursery Saaj, informed that they grow apples, plums, walnuts and apricot plants from seed in the high-tech nurseries and then plant them after grafting. He said that after the government initiative, people are profiting. "We have five high-tech nurseries. These are very useful as plants get prepared fast and are ready to be planted outside....We have so many orchards here and in the Mandi region as well. "

Parveen Akhter, who owns her land and plants apple orchards on it, said, "We used to plant corn in our land before, but it was never fruitful. Then we were advised to plant orchards, and since last year, we have been generating good profit. We will plant more apple orchards in the coming times."

The Department of Horticulture is providing necessary guidance, support, and financial assistance to farmers. The district administration aims to bring more land under ultra-high-density apple plantations to further promote apple production in the region.

Earlier, in a major relief for apple growers across the country, including those in Himachal Pradesh, the Central government has raised the minimum import price (MIP) of apples from ₹50 to ₹80 per kg.

The revised price came into effect on June 3, 2025, following approval from the Union Agriculture Minister.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state spokesperson Chetan Singh Bragta shared the information during a press conference in Shimla on Friday.

He described the move as a reflection of the Modi government's farmer- and horticulturist-friendly mindset, and credited its strong political will for the decision.

Calling it a visionary and bold step, Bragta said the hike in MIP will curb the illegal inflow of foreign apples and help local producers get fair prices for their produce.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the initiative is good, I hope they're also focusing on proper water management and sustainable practices. J&K has faced water scarcity issues in recent summers. Modern farming must go hand-in-hand with environmental consciousness.
A
Arjun K
The MIP increase to ₹80/kg is a game-changer! Finally our local apple growers will get fair prices instead of being undercut by cheap imports. Kudos to the government for supporting our annadatas. 🍎🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
As someone working in agricultural development, I'm impressed by how quickly farmers are adopting these new techniques. The training programs seem to be effective. Would love to see similar models implemented in other fruit-growing regions of India.
V
Vikram M
Good to see women like Parveen Akhter leading the change! More power to our farmer sisters. The shift from traditional crops to horticulture shows how progressive thinking can bring prosperity to rural areas.
K
Kavya N
Hope the government ensures these benefits reach small farmers too, not just big landowners. Sometimes schemes look good on paper but implementation at grassroots level is different. Monitoring is crucial for real success.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50