Anantnag : Walnut farmers across Kashmir are facing heavy financial losses after unusual weather conditions severely affected walnut production this year, raising concerns among farming communities dependent on the crop for their livelihood.
Farmers said irregular rainfall, unseasonal rains, and delayed yet intense winter conditions damaged walnut orchards in several parts of the Valley, leading to a sharp decline in yield. Growers stated that walnuts remain the main source of income for thousands of families, especially in areas where cultivation of alternative crops is limited.
Locals said the decline in production has added to their economic difficulties, as many had already invested significant amounts in pesticides, medicines, and orchard maintenance. “The weather remained unpredictable throughout the year, which badly affected walnut crops. We are unlikely to recover our expenses this season,” a farmer said.
“This is a poor and backward area where most families depend on walnut farming for their livelihood. But this year, due to the extreme cold and unusual weather conditions, the walnut crop has declined drastically,” said Muzaffar, a local grower. He added that walnuts remain the primary source of income for many families in the region, while apple orchards have also witnessed poor production this season. “We spend heavily on medicines and spraying for orchards, but this year it seems we will have to bear all the losses ourselves. There is already a lot of poverty here, and the sharp decline in both walnut and apple production may worsen the situation further,” he said, urging authorities to look into the issue and provide support to affected farmers.
Farmers also claimed that apple production has witnessed a decline this year, further worsening the situation for horticulture-dependent families. They fear continued losses could push many growers into financial distress.
The farming community has appealed to the government to provide immediate financial assistance and compensation to affected growers. Farmers urged authorities to introduce relief measures and support schemes to help orchard owners cope with the losses and protect their livelihoods.
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