SRINAGAR: Farmers from the Rahthal Organic Cluster in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district have harvested 1.5 tons (15 quintals) of Organic Hill Garlic from just one hectare of land this season, earning an impressive Rs 2 lakh in income. The cluster comprises 50 farmers, who achieved a bumper yield by adopting improved agronomic practices tailored to the region’s unique terrain and climate.
Marking the achievement, the cluster’s president, Gulab Nabi Wani, led a group of farmers in presenting gift packs of their fresh produce to Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal. The event was also attended by Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Kushal Chandel and staff from the Agriculture Department, who have supported the initiative throughout.
Hill Garlic, a niche crop known for its medicinal properties, long shelf life and strong market demand, is gaining popularity as a high-value option for small and marginal farmers in mountainous regions. The Kishtwar success story is being hailed as a model for climate-resilient agriculture in the Chenab Valley.
Officials attributed the success to timely interventions, organic methods, and continuous field support from the Agriculture Department. The Deputy Commissioner praised the cluster’s efforts and urged more farmers to explore sustainable and innovative farming techniques. “This is a proud moment for Kishtwar and an encouraging sign for hill agriculture,” he said.
Special recognition was given to CAO Kushal Chandel and field-level extension officer Rabia Kouser, whose consistent training and support played a key role in enabling the cluster to achieve such results under the district’s agricultural development programme.
“This initiative is not just about a successful harvest—it reaffirms our broader vision of doubling farmers’ income and promoting high-value, climate-resilient crops,” said CAO Kushal Chandel. He added that the department would continue to facilitate training, input support, and market linkage to expand Hill Garlic cultivation across the Chenab Valley.
The success of the Rahthal cluster underscores the transformative potential of hill agriculture when backed by scientific guidance, institutional support, and community-led efforts.
