SRINAGAR: Agriculture is becoming a focal point for local investments in Jammu and Kashmir, with vegetable production in the Union Territory experiencing a significant 33 per cent increase in the last three years.
During this period, the cultivated area has also expanded by 20 per cent.
According to the official documents, vegetable production in Jammu and Kashmir was recorded at 1337 thousand MT in 2019.
The annual vegetable production in Jammu and Kashmir has surged to 1995 thousand MT in 2022, marking a notable uptick of 33 per cent over the last three years. The cultivated area, which stood at 60,000 hectares in 2019, has also grown to 84,000 hectares in 2022.
Documents reveal that in 2020, vegetable production in the Union Territory was recorded at 1339 thousand MT, reflecting a 1 per cent increase in annual production compared to 2019.
In 2021, Jammu and Kashmir recorded an annual vegetable production of 1890 thousand MT, with the cultivated area expanding to 84,000 hectares within a year.
Officials attribute the boost in vegetable production to a combination of factors, including strategic government initiatives, technological advancements, and the unwavering commitment of farmers.
Officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Agriculture stated that concerted efforts have been made to enhance agricultural practices and support farmers in adopting modern techniques.
“The agriculture department has been conducting various programs to educate farmers about the scope of modern farming. From saffron to the production of exotic vegetables, the department has organized various programs, which have yielded substantial results. Now, our Kashmir produces exotic vegetables, including broccoli, lettuce, and sweet corn,” the official said.
Pertinently, the Jammu and Kashmir government recently launched a Rs 400 crore ‘Promotion of Vegetables’ project to increase production and reduce dependence on imports.
Currently, Jammu and Kashmir has a high seasonal dependence on imports to meet vegetable demands. J&K imports more than 318.26 thousand metric tons of vegetables, valuing Rs 636.52 crores annually from states including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
From establishing vegetable nurseries to hi-tech greenhouses on a mass scale, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has earmarked Rs 400 crore for this project.
The project document revealed that the administration is targeting to increase vegetable production from 1991 to 2587 thousand Metric Tons. (KNO)
