A Scared Farmer: An Urgent Plea to Protect Kashmir's Apple Industry

The apple industry in the picturesque region of Kashmir transcends its local boundaries, assuming a profound significance that reverberates throughout the entire country. Its impact, particularly on the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, cannot be understated. In the tapestry of the region’s economy, apple farming emerges as a pivotal thread, weaving its way through the fabric of prosperity. Surpassing even the illustrious tourism sector, this humble agricultural pursuit substantially contributes approximately eight per cent to the state’s GDP. The sector assumes a pivotal role in bestowing employment opportunities upon diverse segments of society, including women, while also fostering economic prosperity in the rural hinterlands. The apple industry, year after year, bears the remarkable responsibility of yielding a staggering production of over 20 lakh metric tonnes of this delectable fruit. In certain bountiful years, this figure soars even higher, reaching an impressive 25 lakh metric tonnes. Indeed, it is a fascinating reality that a significant portion of Kashmir’s population finds themselves intricately entwined with the apple industry, whether directly or indirectly. The apple orchards, spanning over a vast expanse of more than 3.5 lakh hectares, stand as a testament to the region’s commitment to cultivating this luscious fruit. In the wake of the abrogation of Article 370, it is clear that the government has embarked upon a commendable endeavour to foster the well-being and progress of Jammu and Kashmir. The efforts being made in this regard are truly remarkable, especially when it comes to the various initiatives being undertaken to elevate the tourism industry. The recent G20 Summit, a significant event in the realm of international diplomacy, has also played a pivotal role in fostering global connections. As expressed by the esteemed LG Manoj Sinha, the aftermath of this momentous gathering has witnessed a notable surge in the influx of foreign tourists. However, one must not overlook the undeniable significance of the horticulture sector, specifically the realm of apple farming, as it demands the utmost attention from the government to foster expansion and cultivate a source of revenue.

The commendable endeavours of the government to bolster the apple industry through a comprehensive array of measures, encompassing subsidies, loans, and schemes, are worthy of admiration. Nevertheless, the horticultural industry has found itself entangled in a web of challenges in recent times. Alas, the fateful year of 2022 unfolded as a calamitous chapter for apple growers, leaving them in a state of despair. During the zenith of the season, a tumultuous descent in prices ensued, casting a pall of despair upon the farming community, notwithstanding their bountiful harvest. The decline in prices can be attributed, in part, to the mismanagement of the national highway, a vital conduit for the transportation of Apple shipments. The already arduous challenges encountered by farmers were only compounded by this logistical quandary. Moreover, the ever-mounting expenses associated with sustenance and maintenance, encompassing the escalating costs of labour, fertilizers, sprays, and agricultural equipment, have further compounded the already arduous plight faced by farmers. The relentless grip of inflationary pressures has only served to exacerbate the already burdensome financial strain they face, rendering the task of meeting their basic needs an even more formidable challenge.

In the month of May 2023, a glimmer of hope graced the hearts of many as the government of India took a decisive step. With unwavering determination, they chose to prohibit the importation of apples from Iran that fell within the low price range of below 50 Rs. This bold move, resonating with a sense of optimism, breathed new life into the collective spirit of farmers. The farmers, their hearts brimming with hope, eagerly anticipated the prospect of securing favourable prices for their bountiful harvest this year.

The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States has regrettably brought distressing news for the farming community. With the reduction of the extra 20% import duty on Washington Apples, a sense of grief has started permeating the air. Through this development, a devastating blow has been inflicted upon the indigenous farmers of Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. In an era when the voices of local farmers resonated with a resounding call for elevated import duties, reaching as high as a staggering 100% on apples, the aftermath of this consequential decision has ignited a profound sentiment of helplessness and exasperation within the farming community. In the depths of their being, they harbour a profound sentiment that their tireless efforts and arduous endeavours are met with a disheartening lack of just recompense. This disconcerting reality engenders within them a pervasive sense of desolation, casting a shadow of doubt upon the trajectory of their future prospects.

The diminished import duty on Washington Apples not only presents a formidable challenge to the market for indigenous apples but also erodes the painstaking endeavours of farmers to maintain their means of subsistence. The growers find themselves haunted by a pervasive sense of trepidation, as they grapple with the looming spectre of heightened competition stemming from the arrival of imported apples. These apples, celebrated far and wide for their exceptional quality and resplendent sheen, have cast a formidable shadow over the industry. The precarious nature of farmers’ income and economic stability renders them even more vulnerable, thereby perpetuating the relentless cycle of financial uncertainty.

A Kashmiri Farmer’s Plea

In the heartland of Kashmir, where the fertile soil and gentle climate have nurtured generations of apple farmers, a profound sense of unease has settled upon our close-knit community. As a humble cultivator of this cherished fruit, one whose very existence is intertwined with the orchards that have been passed down through the ages, I find myself grappling with a disquieting reality. The recent pronouncement to diminish the import duty on Washington apples has reverberated through our tranquil valleys, casting a shadow of apprehension upon our livelihoods. The reverberations of this policy change resonate deeply within the fabric of our existence, casting a profound shadow upon our livelihoods and casting doubt upon the very future of the apple industry in the enchanting region of Kashmir. I beseech the esteemed Government of India to reassess this decision, urging them to contemplate the dire consequences it shall unleash upon our existence and the very bedrock of our economy.

In the enchanting region of Kashmir, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, lies an industry that transcends mere economic significance. The apple industry, with its sprawling orchards and bountiful harvests, is not just a means of livelihood but a cherished way of life for the people of this idyllic land. For generations, diligent farmers, including my own beloved family, have toiled tirelessly upon the fertile earth, dedicating their lives to the cultivation of magnificent apple orchards. These bountiful plantations, nurtured with unwavering care and expertise, yield a harvest of the most exquisite fruits known to humankind. The apples we offer have garnered immense popularity in both local and global markets, owing to their unparalleled quality, tantalizing flavour, and unique attributes.

Nevertheless, should we choose to reduce the import duty levied upon the esteemed apples hailing from the bountiful orchards of Washington, it would undoubtedly serve as a detriment to our ongoing endeavours, thereby thrusting us into a position of considerable disadvantage. In the realm of agriculture, the Washington apples have emerged as a formidable adversary, armed with their refined cultivation techniques and cutting-edge technological advancements. These apples, nurtured with utmost sophistication, present a significant challenge to our native produce, casting a shadow of uncertainty over its future. The imported apples shall not merely match the quality of their domestic counterparts, but their esteemed global reputation and lustrous allure may bestow upon them a distinct advantage. Furthermore, this consequential choice will inevitably lead to a transformation in the inclinations of consumers, as those who prioritize affordability will gravitate towards comparatively more economical imported alternatives. The fruits of our labour, our unwavering devotion, and our steadfast adherence to the principles of organic agriculture may find themselves overshadowed by the overwhelming presence of imported apples in the market. The potential consequences of this situation loom large, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future of our apple industry. A notable decrease in demand for our fruit threatens not only our financial stability but also the very existence of our cherished orchards.

The apple industry in Kashmir, with its profound intertwining with our cultural heritage and identity, stands as a testament to its economic significance. The orchards that grace our land are not mere collections of trees, but living testaments to the enduring power of tradition. These hallowed grounds have been entrusted to us by our ancestors, who, with great care and reverence, passed down their wisdom and knowledge from one generation to the next. For centuries, these orchards have stood as steadfast guardians of our heritage, bearing witness to the timeless rituals and customs that have shaped our way of life. They embody the essence of resiliency, tenacity, and our profound connection to the land. In the event of a collapse within our industry, the repercussions would extend far beyond mere economic devastation. Indeed, the very fabric of our rich cultural tapestry would suffer a gradual erosion, leaving an indelible mark on our collective identity. Furthermore, it would be remiss of us to disregard the impact on employment. The apple industry, a vital source of livelihood for both skilled and unskilled labourers, sustains numerous families through its employment opportunities. The industry’s decline casts a sombre shadow, threatening to unravel the delicate fabric of livelihoods, leaving in its wake a disheartening surge of destitution. As the ripples of this downturn spread across the region, the once tranquil social landscape trembles with the potential for unrest, as the weight of uncertainty bears down upon its inhabitants.

It is imperative that the Indian government prioritize the welfare of native producers and diligently safeguard our cherished indigenous apple industry. Rather than simply diminishing import duties, it is imperative for the government to extend its support and fortify our domestic industry. In our quest for progress, we eagerly anticipate the provision of improved infrastructure, granting us the opportunity to traverse new horizons with ease and efficiency. Access to modern technologies promises to unlock a world of possibilities, empowering us to embrace innovation and stay at the forefront of advancements. Furthermore, the enhancement of storage facilities will bestow upon us the capacity to safeguard our valuable resources and assets, ensuring their preservation and accessibility when needed. I implore the esteemed government to reevaluate its decision and partake in meaningful discourse with the local producers and industry experts. By fostering collaboration, we can uncover sustainable solutions that not only cater to the needs of our domestic markets but also resonate on an international scale. Let us, as custodians of the apple industry, exercise caution and wisdom, ensuring that our pursuit of immediate gains does not cast a shadow upon the enduring sustainability and prosperity of this vital sector. As a humble Kashmiri farmer, I beseech the esteemed government to duly acknowledge the profound significance that the apple industry holds in our cherished way of life and undertake resolute measures aimed at safeguarding this invaluable sector. The apples we cultivate transcend their mere existence as fruit, for they embody the essence of our toil, our ancestral lineage, and our lofty dreams. I beseech the government to lend their unwavering support, to stand resolutely by our side, and to safeguard the cherished heritage of Kashmiri apples, ensuring its perpetuity for generations yet to come.

Zahoor Ahmad Mir is a PhD Scholar at Jamia Millia Islamia. He can be reached at mirzahoor81.mz@gmail.com.