Pulwama, Jul 29 (KNO): Despite a healthy almond crop this season, farmers in Kashmir are increasingly worried about the long-term impact of climate change after the harvest commenced nearly 20 days earlier than usual.
Pulwama and Budgam, particularly its famous Karewa belts, are one of Kashmir's major almond-producing regions, where thousands of kanals are under cultivation. The sector supports the livelihoods of thousands of farmers, labourers and traders, making it an important contributor to the local economy.
Growers, speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the unusually high temperatures accelerated the ripening process, forcing them to begin harvesting almost three weeks ahead of the traditional schedule.
Farmers believe the changing weather pattern is a clear indication of the growing impact of climate change on horticulture in the Valley.
Traditionally, almond trees bloom in March, while the nuts mature by August before harvesting begins. However, this year, the crop ripened much earlier, prompting orchardists to complete harvesting well before the normal season.
Abdul Rashid Bhat, a grower from Parigam area of Pulwama, said the fluctuating weather conditions, including prolonged dry spells, rising temperatures and untimely rainfall, have adversely affected almond orchards.
Many reported premature leaf fall in several plantations, raising concerns about the health of the trees and the sustainability of future production.
According to farmers, although the weather conditions were far from ideal, the almond yield this year has been encouraging compared to previous seasons. However, if such climatic trends continue, they could pose a serious challenge to the industry's future, they said.
Horticulture Department officials acknowledged the changing weather patterns but maintained that the current season has witnessed a satisfactory harvest.
Fayaz Ahmad, an official of the department, said that almond production has remained good this year and there is no immediate cause for concern.
"The department is promoting improved and climate-resilient almond varieties, which are expected to enhance productivity and help growers adapt to changing environmental conditions," he said.
Experts believe that while this year's output has offered relief to farmers. However, the early maturity of the crop underscores the growing influence of climate change on Kashmir's horticulture sector.
They stressed the need for scientific orchard management, climate-resilient farming practices, improved irrigation facilities and the introduction of advanced almond varieties to protect the industry from future climatic uncertainties.
Almond cultivation remains a vital component of Pulwama and Budgam rural economy, and stakeholders say sustained government support, research and modern horticultural practices will be essential to ensure the long-term growth and resilience of the sector in the face of changing climatic conditions—(KNO)