Calls for crop diversification, mushroom cultivation and development of seed hubs
Srinagar : Dr. N.K. Krishna Kumar, former Deputy Director General (Horticulture) at ICAR on Wednesday emphasized the need for enhanced cold-chain infrastructure and diversification of horticultural production to fully realize Jammu and Kashmir’s horticultural potential.
Speaking at the CII J&K Apple Conclave 2026 in Srinagar, he highlighted that inadequate cold-chain logistics hinder the competitiveness of Kashmir’s apples in both domestic and international markets, despite the region’s substantial production capacity. Kumar noted that approximately 60 to 65 percent of the local population relies on the apple economy, making improvements in storage, transportation, and market access essential for boosting farmers’ incomes. He pointed out that the limited four-month window for Kashmir apples to reach markets, coupled with poor logistics, results in a loss of quality during transit, making them less competitive against imported varieties. Kumar advocated for stronger government support, particularly in providing refrigerated transport vehicles, to enhance the quality and marketability of Kashmir apples. He also stressed the importance of diversifying horticultural production to mitigate risks associated with reliance on a single crop, suggesting that crops like walnuts, berries, and mushrooms could significantly contribute to farmers’ incomes. Kumar identified mushroom cultivation as a promising sector, noting that India’s consumption is low compared to China, which presents an opportunity for growth. He mentioned that Kashmir’s climate is suitable for oyster and shiitake mushrooms, which could benefit small-scale entrepreneurs and rural households. Additionally, he called for the establishment of seed-production hubs in northern India to improve the availability of quality seeds and foster agricultural entrepreneurship. The conclave featured discussions on the future of apple cultivation, precision horticulture, and smart farming, with sessions focusing on post-harvest innovation and supply-chain efficiency. Key figures from the agricultural sector participated in these discussions, highlighting the collaborative effort needed to strengthen the horticultural economy in Jammu and Kashmir. Overall, Kumar’s insights underscored the critical need for infrastructure development, crop diversification, and improved market access to enhance the resilience and profitability of the region’s horticultural sector.
